Kick Start Awards

In order to stimulate academic and industrial engagement, Kick Start Awards provide financial support of up to £5,000 per project (exceptionally £10,000) for small projects between the University of Aberdeen and Scottish SMEs (Small to Medium-sized Enterprises).

Eligibility

Applications for a Kick Start Award can be made by either the company or the academic and we would strongly encourage academics who are currently working with Scottish SMEs to contact R&I to discuss possible projects. The funding can be used to cover academic or researcher time spent on the project (consultancy or salary recoup).

These Awards are focused on helping to create long-term collaborations between small companies and the University of Aberdeen, especially new partnerships.

Priority will be given to projects that assess both the potential and feasibility of a new product, process or market and can lead to opportunities to attract follow-on funding from existing sources, demonstrate a clear route to market or indicate a step change in current processes within a Micro or Small Enterprise. SME participants will be expected to make a contribution to the project, which can be in kind.

Application process

You can apply for a Kick Start Award by completing the application form and returning it to Research & Innovation at the University of Aberdeen.

Companies and academics requiring assistance with their application can contact any member of the technology transfer team.

Assessment

You will receive notification of the outcome of your application no later than 20 working days from receipt of all the required information.

Further information

We have put together a list of frequently asked questions which we hope will answer any queries you may have however if you have any other questions relating to the Awards and your Kick Start application please contact Research& Innovation.