Innovate UK announces its largest ever Women in Innovation cohort

Since its launch back in 2016, Innovate UK's Women in Innovation initiative has invested over £15 million in 260 exceptional female innovators, alongside fostering a booming community of over 11,000 female business leaders. The initiative has also helped drive a shift in participation across Innovate UK, with a significant increase being seen in the proportion of successful women-led applications across their various schemes, from 1 in 7, to 1 in 3.

This year, for 2026, 100 women founders have been backed - marking Innovate UK's largest ever Women in Innovation cohort. The cohort is said to be developing innovative solutions across three key sectors: life sciences, digital and technologies, and advanced manufacturing. Of the 100, 61 winners will receive a £75,000 grant, while all 100 will receive 12 months of tailored business support and mentoring. 

It always fantastic to hear of any support and funding provided to UK based companies and entrepreneurs, but its particularly welcomed to hear about support for women, something that hasn't always been there. Innovation knows no gender, but opportunity has not always been equal. By recognising and supporting women in innovation, we help ensure that the best ideas, wherever they come from, have the chance to thrive.

Here at M&C, we are always delighted to hear of new innovations across any sector, and our diverse, specialised teams ensure that any inquiry is handled by the right person. If you have any IP related matters you'd like to discuss, please don't hesitate to contact Annabel Williams or your usual M&C contact - we'd love to help!

_{Resources: https://www.ukri.org/news/innovate-uk-backs-100-women-shaping-the-uks-future-industries/}

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