Ofgem Strategic Innovation Fund Round 5 Discovery C4
Award: Share of up to £30 million (exclusive of VAT)
Programme: Ofgem / Innovate UK (Strategic Innovation Fund)
Closing date: 22 October 2025
Overview
Delivered by Innovate UK in partnership with Ofgem, this Discovery Phase competition funds short projects exploring innovation opportunities across energy networks.
Projects will identify and validate challenges, user needs, and solution value within one of the Round 5 innovation themes. Successful Discovery projects may progress to the Alpha Phase for further development.
Eligibility
- Funding request must be no more than £150,000 (ex VAT).
- At least 10% private contribution required.
- Projects must start after 1 Jan 2026 and end by 31 May 2026.
- Lead: Ofgem-licensed network operator (gas or electricity).
- Must include at least one collaborating partner.
- Eligible project costs only can be claimed.
- No subsidy / no-aid funding rules apply.
- Majority of work must be delivered in the UK.
Award & Project Duration
- Award: Share of up to £30 Million
- Duration: 5 months
Key Dates
- Closes: 22 October 2025
