The Digital Dairy Chain is preparing to launch the second round of its collaborative research and development funding competition from 6th May, with £1.1 million of grant funding available for successful entries.
The competition is run by the national innovation agency, Innovate UK, with the aim of supporting innovative projects focused on improving dairy production and the supply chain.
A total of £2 million was awarded through the Digital Dairy Chain project when the first contest opened to applications in spring 2023. The seven winning projects were awarded grants of between £200,000 and £350,000, which has been invested in work taking place mainly across Cumbria and South and West Scotland.
Programme director Stuart Martin said: “The quantity and quality of applications received in the 2023 collaborative competition was irrefutable proof that the appetite for R&D in the dairy sector is high. We have shown that where there is funding, support and expertise, they are being wholeheartedly embraced by the dairy industry.
“Therefore my message is simple — if you have an innovative project idea, collaborative partners on board and are considering applying, visit the Innovate UK website and read the competition guidelines. Read them carefully and then join us for an online Q&A session or for the Innovate UK briefing webinar to ensure you stand the best chance of submitting a winning application.”
More information can be found on the Digital Dairy Chain website at www.digitaldairychain.co.uk
The Digital Dairy Chain is a five-year project, with a budget of £21 million, to transform the dairy sector in Cumbria and South West Scotland.
