This funding round has closed.

EIT Culture & Creativity: Shape and Scale - financial support for Cultural and Creative Sectors and Industries

Applications closed

Funding: Contact funder
Deadline: 12 October 2026
Location: England
Applications: Applications closed

Overview

This programme offers financial support to cultural and creative startups and scaleups. It is designed to help you grow faster, attract investment, and expand into international markets. There are two strands: the Shape Acceleration Programme and the Scale Post-Acceleration Programme. The deadline to apply is 12 October 2026.

Requirements to check

Who can apply:

limited companysole traderpartnershipsocial enterprise cic

CIC grants in the UK explains which funders accept community interest companies, with the grants that are open now.

Key requirements:

Must be a startup or scaleup in the cultural and creative sector
Must be based in England

This summary may not include every exclusion. Check the full eligibility rules, including who and what the funder will not support.

Who is this for?

This is for startups and scaleups working in the cultural and creative sectors in England. It suits businesses looking to grow quickly, raise investment, or enter international markets. It is not aimed at established large businesses or those outside the creative and cultural industries.

Sectors

Arts, Entertainment & Recreation

Regions

England

No published award history for Innovate UK Business Connect. Some funders do not publish their grants data.

Full details from Innovate UK Business Connect

Cultural and creative startups and scaleups that are looking to accelerate growth, attract investment, and expand internationally, are invited to apply for financial support under the Shape Acceleration Programme and Scale Post-Acceleration Programme.

How to apply

Applications are managed through Innovate UK Business Connect. You will need to apply to either the Shape Acceleration Programme or the Scale Post-Acceleration Programme, depending on your stage of growth. Check the Innovate UK Business Connect website for the application portal and full details.

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