A programme of grants and support for local businesses is being rolled out by the city’s two universities that provide access to a wealth of talent and expertise to help drive innovation, productivity and skills in the city.
The Talent and Innovation Grants project has received £124,441 from the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Following a successful launch last year, the Talent and Innovation programme is back — offering financial support to help Nottingham businesses grow, innovate, and thrive. Last year, 60 local businesses benefitted through a mix of Talent Grants and Innovation Vouchers.
Delivered under the Universities for Nottingham Civic Agreement, the initiative is a collaboration between the University of Nottingham, Nottingham Trent University, and Nottingham City Council.
This year, the programme offers two key funding opportunities:
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Talent Grants: Up to £2,000 to help subsidise the recruitment of a university graduate or student for a minimum of eight weeks.
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Innovation Vouchers: Up to £5,000 to access technical support and consultancy, tapping into cutting-edge university research, facilities, and expertise.
These grants are designed to help businesses improve processes, develop new products or services, boost productivity, and enter new markets.
One of last year’s beneficiaries, BACKLIT Gallery, experienced tangible results from the support.
“Business support initiatives like this are rare. It’s had a great impact on BACKLIT — expanding our capacity, skillset, partnerships, and team dynamics.”
— Suzanne Golden, Co-Director, BACKLIT Gallery
Expanded Support in 2025
This year, the programme is expanding to include more delivery groups and a broader range of sector-specific expertise:
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Food Innovation Centre – Science and technology consultancy for food and drink businesses.
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Chemistry Innovation Laboratory – Analytical and product development support across chemistry, materials, and life sciences.
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Institute of Aerospace Technology – Expertise across the aerospace supply chain.
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Precision Manufacturing Centre – Design consultancy, prototype manufacturing, and inspection services.
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Design Matters – Sustainable product and packaging design consultancy.
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Virtual and Immersive Production Studio (VIP Studio) – Technical innovation support for digital and creative industries.
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UNIEI & UNIP – Executive and enterprise education, with opportunities for businesses to work alongside university researchers.
“The Talent and Innovation model has been extremely effective in giving businesses the tools they need to innovate and grow. This year’s expanded offering will boost even more businesses across Nottingham.”
— Professor Trevor Farren, University of Nottingham
“We’re thrilled to continue offering this unique support. By bringing together the skills and knowledge of our students and graduates, we’re helping businesses tackle challenges and achieve their goals.”
— Matthew Staniforth, Nottingham Trent University
This programme is made possible through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), awarded to Nottingham City Council by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. The UKSPF supports initiatives across three key themes: Communities and Place, Supporting Local Business, and People and Skills.
Find out more about how to apply to the Talent and Innovation Programme.