We are launching a grand challenge in the area of composites manufacturing on behalf of the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS). The competition aims to stimulate the uptake of fibrerein-forced polymer matrix composites, across a range of markets, by inspiring a major leap forward in technologies that go beyond conventional methods, to enable high-performance, high-value products to be manufactured more quickly and affordably. Up to £6m has been allocated to fund a three-stage competition for feasibility studies, collaborative research and development, and ultimately demonstration of technologies for the cost-effective and rapid manufacture of composites. There are three stages in the competition:

Stage 1:
Interested consortia or individual businesses first submit a Grand Challenge Response outlining their idea.

Stage 2:
Successful applicants will then be invited to conduct a feasibility study detailing proposed ideas for the manufacturing process - a total of £500k has been allocated to fund this stage. 

Bidders Workshop:
All successful applicants present their feasibility work. 

Stage 3:
The most promising projects from the feasibility studies will then be invited to develop and test their ideas - a total of £500k has been allocated to fund this stage.

Grand Prize:
After development and testing, the most outstanding proposal will be awarded £5m to demonstrate its technology. The challenge is open to industry-led consortia or individual businesses. After each stage proposals will be independently assessed.