SBRI is a programme that brings innovative solutions to specific public sector needs, by engaging a broad range of companies in competitions for ideas that result in short-term development contracts.

Key features:

• SBRI is a programme for running an open competition for ideas and new technologies.
• It results in a fully funded development contract between the company and the government department - it is not a government grant.
• It generally has a two-phased development approach that starts with initial feasibility and then more detailed product development.
• It is a fast track, simplified process that allows government departments to engage with business they would not normally work with.
• It is particularly suitable for SME and early stage businesses and gives vital funding for the critical stage of product development.
• The government department (or public sector body) acts as the lead customer and is instrumental in helping the business develop its product or technology.
• It should result in a commercial product or service.
• The intellectual property is retained by the company, with certain rights of use held by the department.

SBRI stands for Small Business Research Initiative and significantly reworks the previous scheme that was launched into the UK in 2001. The Technology Strategy Board champions SBRI which is now focused on technology development and specific competitions. This is similar to the SBIR scheme in the United States, which has been running successfully since 1982.

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Related Documents
SBRI Introductory Brochure
SBRI FAQs