The new SBRI programme aims to use government procurement to drive innovation. It provides business opportunities for innovative companies whilst solving the needs of government departments.

Competitions for new technologies and ideas are run in specific areas and aim to engage a broad range of companies in short-term development contracts.

SBRI enables government departments and public sector organisations to procure new technologies faster and with managed risk through a phased development programme, and it provides paid contracts for the critical stage of product development.