Contracts for Innovation: First of a Kind (FOAK) Rail Programme 2026
Funding
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Location
England
Applications
Open until 24 June 2026
Innovate UK is offering £4.3 million for rail innovation projects in England. You can apply for funding to develop prototypes, test them in the field, and demonstrate your solutions. The money is split across eight different themes in the rail sector. Applications close on 24 June 2026. This is part of the First of a Kind Rail Programme. You need to show how your innovation will work in real rail environments. The funding includes VAT, so you don't need to add extra costs for tax.
Key requirements:
- Must develop a prototype
- Must conduct field testing
- Must demonstrate the solution
Regions
Organisations can apply for a share of £4.3 million, inclusive of VAT, across eight themes to develop a prototype, conduct field testing, and demonstrate their solution.
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Create free accountLast updated: 19 May 2026