DTI seeks nanotechnology research projects, £50 million grants to give

UK companies have until 26 March 2004 to submit outline proposals for the three-year £50m Applied Research Programme. All proposals must be collaborative and include the participation of at least two UK businesses. The Applied Research Programme is part of the DTI's £90m Micro and Nanotechnology Manufacturing Initiative.

This initiative aims to help industry harness the commercial opportunities offered by micro and nanotechnologies. The remaining £40m will fund a new network of micro and nanotechnology facilities.

Science and Innovation Minister, Lord Sainsbury said:

"This research programme will help both large and small UK businesses develop commercial applications of nanotechnology. Estimates predict a global market in nanotechnology worth over $1 trillion in a decade, and it is vital the UK gains a significant share of this."

An over-subscribed launch event for potential applicants held last week had over 300 delegates. Attendees included large and small companies from all the major industrial sectors including healthcare, chemicals, aerospace, automotive, electronics, and materials, as well as investors and academics. Many commented on the opportunities that the programme would provide to accelerate the development and commercial application of micro and nanotechnology.

A series of roadshows for potential applicants are also being held at the following locations:

Manchester, Hilton Manchester Airport - 12 February - Bristol, Holiday Inn, Bristol Filton - 16 February - London, Ernst & Young LLP, SE1 - 18 February

Micro and nanotechnology involves working with materials on a very tiny scale a human hair measures around 80,000 nanometres. The new technology has the potential to create or improve products and processes. Existing products include stain resistant trousers, improved photographic and printing materials and bacteria resistant bandages, but there could be many other future applications.

Businesses interested in applying for a grant from this programme should visit www.mnt.org.uk for all relevant forms and guidance.

£15m is available for this round of the Applied Research Programme. Approximately 30 projects, lasting from two to four years will be funded in this round. The funding will cover up to half of the total project costs. Further calls for proposals are planned for early 2005 and 2006.

Once the outline proposals have been assessed, between 60 to 90 will be asked to proceed to the next stage and provide full proposals for further consideration.

Related links to this article:

DTI

To submit outline proposals or register for seminars, applicants should visit www.mnt.org.uk