Connected Places Catapult launches freight innovation fund for UK SMEs

Connected Places Catapult has opened applications for the Freight Innovation Fund: Venture Growth Programme, a pilot initiative designed to help UK small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) commercialize validated freight and logistics solutions.

Delivered on behalf of the Department for Transport, the programme targets innovators at Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 7 through 9. This stage involves moving from prototype demonstrations in operational environments to solutions that are fully qualified through successful mission operations. The initiative serves as an extension of the Freight Innovation Fund Accelerator, which has supported SMEs at TRL 5 to 7 since 2023.

Successful participants will receive four months of bespoke support focusing on refining commercial propositions, strengthening deployment planning, and improving investor readiness. The programme also provides access to a network of logistics operators and investors to help develop strategic partnerships. Applications are open until 21 September, specifically targeting challenges in improving multi-modality across ports, rail, road, and maritime hubs, as well as enhancing digital freight and logistics systems for better visibility and decision-making.