New Funding Opportunity for German-British Innovation Projects
Joint research and development projects with partners from the United Kingdom
October 12, 2026
Companies and research institutions from Germany and the United Kingdom can apply for funding under the 5th joint call for proposals for German-British research and development projects. The focus is on joint projects aimed at developing innovative products, processes, or technical services with high market potential. The call for proposals is open to all technologies and applications. Applications may be submitted until December 1, 2026.
The call for proposals offers German companies the opportunity to develop new technological solutions in collaboration with partners from the United Kingdom. Funding is available for research and development projects in all technology and application areas, provided they aim to develop innovative products, processes, or technical services with high market potential.
Funding is provided through the respective national programs. On the German side, projects are supported through the Central Innovation Program for SMEs (ZIM). For British partners, Innovate UK is the point of contact for the corresponding British funding instrument.
Attractive Funding Terms for Transnational Collaborations
German project partners are funded in accordance with the current ZIM guidelines. For transnational collaborations, the ZIM guidelines provide for a funding rate increased by up to 10 percent. The review and approval procedures of the participating countries are coordinated.
According to the call for proposals, interested companies and research institutions should contact the relevant representatives at AiF Projekt GmbH at an early stage.
Take Advantage of International Partnerships Now
For companies that wish to expand their research and development activities internationally and bring innovations to market in collaboration with British partners, this call for proposals offers a concrete funding opportunity.
The application deadline is December 1, 2026. Information on the call for proposals and the joint application form are available from ZIM in the section on international calls for proposals related to the United Kingdom.
