{"id":2628,"date":"2025-03-17T13:04:16","date_gmt":"2025-03-17T13:04:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ipec.org.uk\/?post_type=resource&#038;p=2628"},"modified":"2025-04-15T15:46:14","modified_gmt":"2025-04-15T14:46:14","slug":"gate-1-discovery-of-innovative-solutions","status":"publish","type":"resource","link":"https:\/\/staging.temper.digital\/ipec-microsite\/resource\/gate-1-discovery-of-innovative-solutions\/","title":{"rendered":"GATE 1: DISCOVERY OF INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS"},"content":{"rendered":"  <div class=\"article-hero alignfull\">\n  <div class=\"article-hero__container\">\n\n    <div class=\"article-hero__inner\">\n\n      <div class=\"column left\">\n        <div class=\"breadcrumbs\">\n          <!-- Breadcrumb NavXT 7.4.1 -->\n<span property=\"itemListElement\" typeof=\"ListItem\"><a property=\"item\" typeof=\"WebPage\" title=\"Go to IPEC.\" href=\"https:\/\/staging.temper.digital\/ipec-microsite\" class=\"home\" aria-current=\"page\"><span property=\"name\">IPEC<\/span><\/a><meta property=\"position\" content=\"1\"><\/span>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"content\">\n                    <h1>GATE 1: DISCOVERY OF INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS<\/h1>\n        \n                    <p>How to choose the best way to research and test solutions prior to the commercial stage.<\/p>\n                <\/div>\n\n      <\/div>\n\n      <div class=\"right\">\n        <div class=\"article-hero__author\">\n          <div class=\"article-hero__author-info\">\n                                                              <\/div>\n          <div class=\"article-hero__author-share\">\n            <p>SHARE:<\/p>\n            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/shareArticle?mini=true&#038;url=\" target=\"_blank\">\n              <!-- LinkedIn share icon SVG here -->\n                                          <svg width=\"24\" height=\"25\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 25\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                              <g clip-path=\"url(#clip0_3432_13094)\">\n                              <path d=\"M22.2234 0.193359H1.77187C0.792187 0.193359 0 0.966797 0 1.92305V22.459C0 23.4152 0.792187 24.1934 1.77187 24.1934H22.2234C23.2031 24.1934 24 23.4152 24 22.4637V1.92305C24 0.966797 23.2031 0.193359 22.2234 0.193359ZM7.12031 20.6449H3.55781V9.18867H7.12031V20.6449ZM5.33906 7.62773C4.19531 7.62773 3.27188 6.7043 3.27188 5.56523C3.27188 4.42617 4.19531 3.50273 5.33906 3.50273C6.47813 3.50273 7.40156 4.42617 7.40156 5.56523C7.40156 6.69961 6.47813 7.62773 5.33906 7.62773ZM20.4516 20.6449H16.8937V15.0762C16.8937 13.7496 16.8703 12.0387 15.0422 12.0387C13.1906 12.0387 12.9094 13.4871 12.9094 14.9824V20.6449H9.35625V9.18867H12.7687V10.7543H12.8156C13.2891 9.8543 14.4516 8.90273 16.1813 8.90273C19.7859 8.90273 20.4516 11.2746 20.4516 14.359V20.6449Z\" fill=\"#2E2D2B\"\/>\n                              <\/g>\n                              <defs>\n                              <clipPath id=\"clip0_3432_13094\">\n                              <rect width=\"24\" height=\"24\" fill=\"white\" transform=\"translate(0 0.193359)\"\/>\n                              <\/clipPath>\n                              <\/defs>\n                              <\/svg>\n            <\/a>\n          <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n  <div class=\"article-hero__image\">\n    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1278741300-1.png\" alt=\"GATE 1: DISCOVERY OF INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS\" \/>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-id2628_3f0c6e-b8 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id2628_3f0c6e-b8 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id2628_3f0c6e-b8 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:7rem;row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, calc(65% - ((7rem * 1 )\/2)))minmax(0, calc(35% - ((7rem * 1 )\/2)));}.kb-row-layout-id2628_3f0c6e-b8 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id2628_3f0c6e-b8 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 2fr) minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id2628_3f0c6e-b8 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id2628_3f0c6e-b8 alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-row-layout-left-golden kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column2628_c86426-44 > .kt-inside-inner-col{display:flex;}.kadence-column2628_c86426-44 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2628_c86426-44 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2628_c86426-44 > .kt-inside-inner-col{row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2628_c86426-44 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2628_c86426-44 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2628_c86426-44 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2628_c86426-44{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2628_c86426-44 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2628_c86426-44 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2628_c86426-44\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p><strong>Discovery means finding out more about something that already exists. In the context of innovation, discovery involves understanding new solutions and determining whether they are suitable for a particular challenge and environment. Whilst not to be used to procure commercial volumes, both Grant Funding and Pre-Commercial Procurement support the research and testing of solutions prior to the commercial stage. The following processes are therefore tools used to research and test solutions available in the market before considering commercial scaling.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>This section offers knowledge and guidance for public-sector professionals on the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-default\">\n<li><a href=\"#grantfunding\">Grant Funding<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#acceleratorprog\">Accellerator Programme<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#pcp\">Pre-Commercial Procurement (PCP)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-id2628_b12d24-28 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id2628_b12d24-28 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id2628_b12d24-28 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem );padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id2628_b12d24-28{border-top-left-radius:8px;border-top-right-radius:8px;border-bottom-right-radius:8px;border-bottom-left-radius:8px;overflow:clip;isolation:isolate;}.kb-row-layout-id2628_b12d24-28 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{border-top-left-radius:8px;border-top-right-radius:8px;border-bottom-right-radius:8px;border-bottom-left-radius:8px;}.kb-row-layout-id2628_b12d24-28{border-top:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-right:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-bottom:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-left:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);}.kb-row-layout-id2628_b12d24-28 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id2628_b12d24-28 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id2628_b12d24-28{border-top:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-right:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-bottom:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-left:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id2628_b12d24-28 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id2628_b12d24-28{border-top:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-right:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-bottom:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-left:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id2628_b12d24-28 alignnone has-cpc-warm-grey-background-color kt-row-has-bg wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column2628_06882c-2b > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2628_06882c-2b > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2628_06882c-2b > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2628_06882c-2b > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2628_06882c-2b > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2628_06882c-2b > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2628_06882c-2b{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2628_06882c-2b > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2628_06882c-2b > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2628_06882c-2b\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-bold\" id=\"grantfunding\">What is Grant Funding?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A grant is often a lump sum of money that is usually subject to conditions set by the funder.&nbsp;The public authority contributes to a project or organisation that aligns with its policy goals.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is a light-touch selection and award process, but the authority must follow the Grant Standards, for such as transparently appointing contractors and advertising work.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the arrangement is intended to benefit the recipient and provide them with money for a public good, it is likely to be a grant.&nbsp;If it is intended to discharge an obligation or obtain a benefit for the grant-making department, it is more likely to be a contract for services.&nbsp;With grants, therefore, the buyer has limited control over the funds spent, remaining at arm\u2019s length to recipients and outputs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Grants are also more focused on general outcomes and flexible requirements, including research and innovation. As a result, grant recipients are usually able to exercise the freedom to take their own decisions on how to achieve the desired outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What are the limitations?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-style-2\">\n<li><strong>A grant is provided on conditions aimed at ensuring the proper application of the funds, but not in return for anything.<\/strong> Terms and Conditions focus on broader aims and milestones, plus categories of expenditure.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The funding is to reimburse for the expenditure and can be paid in advance of activities. <\/strong>Though the authority can suspend a grant contract and claw back funds, there is limited control over output and performance.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Although the selection process is output-focused, there is less emphasis on results and impact.<\/strong> Therefore, grant funding offers a great opportunity for cost-effective discovery and learning. It can help provide firsthand customer feedback for&nbsp;newly developed solutions. However, the authority cannot guarantee grant funding for subsequent periods after the term of the initial grant agreement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The authority is limited in terms of enforcing results arising from a grant. <\/strong>However, grant funding can effectively assist with developing a stronger set of long-term objectives and output requirements to facilitate a tender for scaling of a solution.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>A grant is not typically used to scale a solution.<\/strong> Instead, the funding would generally be employed at an early stage of developing or understanding its potential.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column2628_8a5916-b4 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2628_8a5916-b4 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2628_8a5916-b4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2628_8a5916-b4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2628_8a5916-b4 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2628_8a5916-b4 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2628_8a5916-b4{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2628_8a5916-b4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2628_8a5916-b4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2628_8a5916-b4\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-bold\" id=\"grantfunding\">Where to look for Grant Funding?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-style-2\">\n<li><strong>UKRI&nbsp;<\/strong><br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ukri.org\/\">UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)<\/a>&nbsp;is a non-departmental public body which offers&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ukri.org\/opportunity\/\">funding&nbsp;<\/a>and support across all academic disciplines and industrial areas. It funds research and innovation on a competitive basis, with proposals assessed for excellence and impact. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ukri.org\/opportunity\/\">funding finder<\/a> on the UKRI website provides access to a broad mix of more than 100 opportunities. To help applicants prioritise, users can customise their search for funding not only by time factors such as opening or closing dates, but also by selecting from a menu of multiple different research councils to suit their specialisms.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Trig by CPC<\/strong><br><a href=\"https:\/\/cp.catapult.org.uk\/\">Connected Places Catapult (CPC)<\/a> offers small investments by way of&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/cp.catapult.org.uk\/transport-research-and-innovation-grants\/\">Transport Research &amp; Innovation Grants (TRIG)<\/a>. These grants help bridge the early-stage funding gap. TRIG is open to public-, private- and third-sector organisations, from SMEs to universities, as long as they have a UK-registered office. The application process is simple and accessible, designed to suit innovators needing a cash injection for R&amp;D work.&nbsp;<br>CPC also offers a programme of&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/cp.catapult.org.uk\/service\/innovation-funding\/#:~:text=What%20does%20innovation%20funding%20involve,develop%20supply%20chains%20of%20innovation.\">Innovation Funding Grants<\/a>, providing targeted support to organisations looking to develop supply chains of innovation. In addition, there is the CPC&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/cp.catapult.org.uk\/accelerators\/\">Accelerator Programme<\/a>, which is a challenge-led, fixed-term initiative that follows a structured framework to speed disruptive products to market. It covers everything from market research, via pilots and demonstrations, through to partnerships and due diligence.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>DfT&#8217;s CRSTS<\/strong><br>Funded by the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-transport\">Department for Transport (DfT)<\/a>, the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/city-region-sustainable-transport-settlements-confirmed-delivery-plans-and-funding-allocations\">City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements (CRSTS)<\/a> form a \u00a35.7 billion programme of investment in local transport networks.&nbsp;As part of the UK&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/national-infrastructure-strategy\">National Infrastructure Strategy<\/a>, CRSTS&nbsp;provide consolidated, long-term capital funding to eight city regions across England, delivered via five-year settlements running 2022-27. There is an element of local discretion as to how the money is used and some potential to combine it with other sources of funding.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>European Union<\/strong><br>The&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/ted.europa.eu\/en\/\">Tenders Electronic Daily (TED)<\/a>&nbsp;portal is the&nbsp;online version of the Supplement to the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/oj\/direct-access.html\">Official Journal of the EU<\/a>&nbsp;where all higher value European public procurement tenders are published. Users can browse, search and sort procurement notices by&nbsp;subject, country, purchaser, and more. All contracting authorities and entities publishing in TED employ a&nbsp;<a href=\"http:\/\/European Union The&nbsp;Tenders Electronic Daily (TED)&nbsp;portal is the&nbsp;online version of the Supplement to the&nbsp;Official Journal of the EU&nbsp;where all higher value European public procurement tenders are published. Users can browse, search and sort procurement notices by&nbsp;subject, country, purchaser, and more. All contracting authorities and entities publishing in TED employ a&nbsp;Common Procurement Vocabulary (CPV)&nbsp;classification, which makes it easier to find notices of interest.&nbsp;EU funding&nbsp;is available to a mix of applicants, from researchers and SMEs to public bodies and NGOs. It includes&nbsp;grants, subsidies,&nbsp;loans, guarantees and equity, plus prizes via&nbsp;Horizon Europe. As of January 2024, the UK became an associated country to Horizon Europe, meaning UK parties are eligible to apply for funding.\">Common Procurement Vocabulary (CPV)<\/a>&nbsp;classification, which makes it easier to find notices of interest.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/european-union.europa.eu\/live-work-study\/funding-grants-subsidies_en\">EU funding<\/a>&nbsp;is available to a mix of applicants, from researchers and SMEs to public bodies and NGOs. It includes&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/commission.europa.eu\/funding-tenders\/find-funding\/eu-funding-programmes_en\">grants<\/a>, subsidies,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/europa.eu\/youreurope\/business\/finance-funding\/getting-funding\/access-finance\/index_en.htm\">loans, guarantees and equity<\/a>, plus prizes via&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu\/funding\/funding-opportunities\/funding-programmes-and-open-calls\/horizon-europe_en\">Horizon Europe<\/a>. As of January 2024, the UK became an associated country to Horizon Europe, meaning UK parties are eligible to apply for funding.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column2628_8e1a75-d4 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2628_8e1a75-d4 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2628_8e1a75-d4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2628_8e1a75-d4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2628_8e1a75-d4 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2628_8e1a75-d4 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2628_8e1a75-d4{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2628_8e1a75-d4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2628_8e1a75-d4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2628_8e1a75-d4\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-bold\">Resources &amp; Support<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-style-2\">\n<li>Read <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.temper.digital\/ipec-microsite\/case-study\/on-the-road-to-net-zero-driving-innovation-with-electric-hgvs\/\">this case study<\/a> available on <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.temper.digital\/ipec-microsite\/case-study\/on-the-road-to-net-zero-driving-innovation-with-electric-hgvs\/\">IPEC\u2019s website<\/a> to learn about <strong>using grants for charging network to support eHGV transition.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Read this <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ukri.org\/who-we-are\/how-we-are-doing\/research-outcomes-and-impact\/innovate-uk\/sustainable-net-zero-vessels-for-inter-island-transport-in-orkney\/\">case study<\/a> available on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ukri.org\">UKRI website<\/a> to learn about <strong>sustainable net zero vessels for inter-island transport in Orkney.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-id2628_c54552-78 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id2628_c54552-78 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id2628_c54552-78 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id2628_c54552-78{border-top-left-radius:8px;border-top-right-radius:8px;border-bottom-right-radius:8px;border-bottom-left-radius:8px;overflow:clip;isolation:isolate;}.kb-row-layout-id2628_c54552-78 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{border-top-left-radius:8px;border-top-right-radius:8px;border-bottom-right-radius:8px;border-bottom-left-radius:8px;}.kb-row-layout-id2628_c54552-78{border-top:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-right:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-bottom:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-left:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);}.kb-row-layout-id2628_c54552-78 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id2628_c54552-78 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id2628_c54552-78{border-top:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-right:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-bottom:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-left:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id2628_c54552-78 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id2628_c54552-78{border-top:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-right:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-bottom:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-left:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id2628_c54552-78 alignnone has-cpc-warm-grey-background-color kt-row-has-bg wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column2628_71d912-73 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2628_71d912-73 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2628_71d912-73 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2628_71d912-73 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2628_71d912-73 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2628_71d912-73 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2628_71d912-73{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2628_71d912-73 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2628_71d912-73 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2628_71d912-73\" id=\"acceleratorprog\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-bold\"><strong>What are Accelerator Programmes?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Accelerator programmes are targeted initiatives designed to fast-track the adoption of innovative and disruptive products and services. They are challenge-led, fixed-term, and follow a structured framework that connects innovators with industry stakeholders and end-users.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-style-2\">\n<li><strong>Innovation Focus:<\/strong> Provide support for businesses, offering access to investment, technology expertise, ethics guidance, and collaboration opportunities as well as opportunity to advance technologies to gain a competitive edge.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Risk Reduction:<\/strong> De-risk innovation for partners by validating SME propositions and creating sustainable growth plans.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Testing of innovation:<\/strong> Use living labs, pilots, trials, and demonstrations to solve commercial challenges faster and more effectively.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Develop Market Insights:<\/strong> Support organisations with tools to understand trends, technologies, and industry vertical.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Foster collaboration:<\/strong> Improved partnerships between SMEs and organisations to create innovative solutions to address real-world challenges.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Accelerators may sometimes start at Gate 0 and include support on PME stage.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column2628_71eac8-54 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2628_71eac8-54 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2628_71eac8-54 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2628_71eac8-54 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2628_71eac8-54 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2628_71eac8-54 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2628_71eac8-54{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2628_71eac8-54 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2628_71eac8-54 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2628_71eac8-54\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-bold\"><strong>Where to go for advice &amp; support?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-style-2\">\n<li><strong>UKRI<\/strong><br>UKRI&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ukri.org\/what-we-do\/browse-our-areas-of-investment-and-support\/innovation-accelerator-programme\/\">Innovation Accelerator Programmes<\/a> provide targeted funding, expert advice, and collaborative opportunities to help businesses and researchers accelerate the development and deployment of innovative solutions. These programmes focus on fostering regional growth and addressing key societal and economic challenges. Discover how the programme is accelerating the growth of three high-potential innovation clusters\u2014Glasgow City Region, Greater Manchester, and the West Midlands\u2014and explore examples of public sector accelerator programmes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Connected&nbsp;Places&nbsp;Catapult<\/strong><br>CPC&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/cp.catapult.org.uk\/accelerators\/\">Accelerator Programme<\/a>, which is a challenge-led, fixed-term initiative that follows a structured framework to speed disruptive products to market. It covers everything from market research, via pilots and demonstrations, through to partnerships and due diligence.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Digital&nbsp;Catapult<\/strong><br>Digital Catapult&#8217;s<a href=\"https:\/\/cp.catapult.org.uk\/accelerators\/\"> Innovation Accelerator Programmes<\/a> are designed to fast-track the growth of startups and scaleups by providing tailored support, expert mentorship, and access to cutting-edge technologies. These programmes help innovative businesses bring transformative solutions to market across sectors like AI, IoT, and immersive technologies<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column2628_c43a5e-05 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2628_c43a5e-05 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2628_c43a5e-05 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2628_c43a5e-05 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2628_c43a5e-05 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2628_c43a5e-05 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2628_c43a5e-05{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2628_c43a5e-05 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2628_c43a5e-05 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2628_c43a5e-05\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-bold\"><strong>Resources &amp; Support<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-style-2\">\n<li>Read&nbsp;this <a href=\"https:\/\/cp.catapult.org.uk\/article\/accelerating-the-future-of-air-mobility\/\">case study<\/a>&nbsp;to explore how Connected Places Catapult is accelerating the <strong>future of air mobility through innovation, collaboration, and cutting-edge technology advancements.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Read&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/cp.catapult.org.uk\/article\/west-midlands-showcases-clean-tech-innovators-in-rail-and-automotive\/\">this case study<\/a>&nbsp;to discover how the <strong>West Midlands is championing clean tech innovation in rail and automotive through groundbreaking initiatives and collaborations.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Read&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/cp.catapult.org.uk\/article\/aviation-accelerator-helps-innovative-firms-take-off\/\">this case study<\/a>&nbsp;to learn how the <strong>Aviation Accelerator supports innovative firms in revolutionising the future of flight and aviation technology<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Read&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.insidermedia.com\/news\/midlandsnorth-west\/vivacity-partners-with-transport-for-west-midlands\">this case study<\/a>&nbsp;to explore how &nbsp;<strong>VivaCity formed a strategic partnership with Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) in the hopes of improving future road safety within the region.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p>The process of securing grants can prove challenging and may require significant time and resources.&nbsp;Applicants could consider seeking internal budget within an organisation to fund a pilot. This might involve reallocating budget from existing revenue streams or identifying other&nbsp;available funds to support research and pilot projects. Consulting&nbsp;with relevant teams and commercial departments within the organisation is recommended when considering the route to market. Leveraging internal resources can not only help to kickstart innovative initiatives but also demonstrates a proactive approach to meeting an organisation\u2019s goals and targets.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-id2628_bb058b-ec > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id2628_bb058b-ec > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id2628_bb058b-ec > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id2628_bb058b-ec{border-top-left-radius:8px;border-top-right-radius:8px;border-bottom-right-radius:8px;border-bottom-left-radius:8px;overflow:clip;isolation:isolate;}.kb-row-layout-id2628_bb058b-ec > .kt-row-layout-overlay{border-top-left-radius:8px;border-top-right-radius:8px;border-bottom-right-radius:8px;border-bottom-left-radius:8px;}.kb-row-layout-id2628_bb058b-ec{border-top:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-right:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-bottom:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-left:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);}.kb-row-layout-id2628_bb058b-ec > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id2628_bb058b-ec > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id2628_bb058b-ec{border-top:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-right:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-bottom:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-left:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id2628_bb058b-ec > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id2628_bb058b-ec{border-top:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-right:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-bottom:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-left:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id2628_bb058b-ec alignnone has-cpc-warm-grey-background-color kt-row-has-bg wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column2628_183e6b-f0 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2628_183e6b-f0 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2628_183e6b-f0 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2628_183e6b-f0 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2628_183e6b-f0 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2628_183e6b-f0 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2628_183e6b-f0{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2628_183e6b-f0 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2628_183e6b-f0 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2628_183e6b-f0\" id=\"pcp\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-bold\"><strong>What is Pre-Commercial Procurement?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Pre-Commercial Procurement (PCP) is an approach to public-procurement of research and development services.&nbsp;It is designed for the commission of R&amp;D services from multiple suppliers who develop alternative solutions in parallel.&nbsp; It allows an organisation to competitively test numerous solutions and then down-select at each phase of the trial.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Designed, at most, as a four-phased approach, PCP allows for a trial to be developed at each stage. As each stage is reached, the authority demonstrates feasibility or provides prototypes to address the challenge.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As PCP is for the award of R&amp;D service contracts, the exemption is made in the Public Contracts Regulations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are two conditions for R&amp;D exemption:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-style-2\">\n<li>The services are intended by the authority to be for, or to result in, benefit to the public; and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The contract does not also provide for the provision of goods or works.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The authority should ensure the R&amp;D services consist of at least one of the following activities:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-style-2\">\n<li>Research aimed at acquiring new scientific or technical knowledge without any particular application or use in view;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Research primarily directed at generating scientific or technical knowledge for a specific objective;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Development that draws on existing knowledge to initiate the manufacture of new materials or products, establish new processes, systems, or services, or achieve substantial improvements in existing materials, products, processes, systems, and services;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>and the manufacture and testing of prototypes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why is PCP still a relatively unused procedure&nbsp;in UK?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Due to the exemption, PCP &nbsp;can follow a light-touch procedure. However, it is also viewed as a long-term process. Authorities often do not have the budget and resource for an unknown outcome. In addition, it is discouraging that a multi-stage process cannot be used for the purchase of commercial volumes of products or services. Therefore, the resource to procure may outweigh the appetite to address the challenge.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-style-2\">\n<li>Authorities may not be prepared to embrace an open approach.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Some authorities may not be in accustomed to&nbsp;&nbsp;the supplier predominantly owning the Intellectual Property Rights.&nbsp;For further guidance, please read the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/the-digital-data-and-technology-playbook\/intellectual-property-rights-guidance-note-html#commercial-action-to-take\">Intellectual Property Rights Guidance Note (HTML) on GOV.UK<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Arguably, PCP is more appropriate to larger organisations as joint investment is required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The new regulations (refer to <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.temper.digital\/ipec-microsite\/resource\/gate-2-the-procurement-act-2023\/\">Gate 2: The Procurement Act 2023<\/a>) support and encourage the use of PCP; however, it is not a newly introduced concept. This procurement exemption applies to contracts primarily focused on the R&amp;D process, including prototype development and testing phases, rather than the large-scale purchase of a finished product. While the regulations promote PCP, and can be included within a Competitive Flexible Procedure (for further information, refer to <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.temper.digital\/ipec-microsite\/resource\/gate-3-routes-to-market-to-scale\/\">Gate 3: Routes to Market to Scale<\/a>); the exemption does not apply if commercial scaling is involved.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column2628_074f67-57 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2628_074f67-57 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2628_074f67-57 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2628_074f67-57 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2628_074f67-57 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2628_074f67-57 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2628_074f67-57{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2628_074f67-57 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2628_074f67-57 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2628_074f67-57\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-bold\"><strong>Where to go for advice on PCP ?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-style-2\">\n<li><strong>IUK\u2019s Contracts for Innovation&nbsp;<\/strong><br>Part of UKRI,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ukri.org\/councils\/innovate-uk\/\">Innovate UK (IUK)<\/a>&nbsp;is the UK\u2019s innovation agency. Focused on business, it provides tailored support, grant funding, loans and procurements. Its&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/iuk-business-connect.org.uk\/programme\/contracts-for-innovation\/\">Contracts for Innovation<\/a>&nbsp;offer innovative organisations the chance to work directly with the public sector to solve complex challenges. This relationship is mutually beneficial and brings about unique benefits for both parties. Contracts for Innovation competitions are open to any size or type of organisation, including businesses, academic and research organisations, plus not-for-profits and charities. In terms of the Technology Readiness Level (TRL), they support the development of solutions to public-sector challenges at any stage, from early feasibility (TRL 2), to demonstrators (TRL 8) where no commercially available solution exists.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column2628_e29717-e7 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2628_e29717-e7 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2628_e29717-e7 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2628_e29717-e7 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2628_e29717-e7 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2628_e29717-e7 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2628_e29717-e7{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2628_e29717-e7 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2628_e29717-e7 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2628_e29717-e7\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-bold\"><strong>Resources &amp; Support<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-style-2\">\n<li>Read <a href=\"https:\/\/cp.catapult.org.uk\/news\/case-study-how-the-small-business-research-initiative-sbri-model-helped-belfast-city-council-transform-its-approach-to-problem-solving\/\">this case study<\/a> available on <a href=\"https:\/\/cp.catapult.org.uk\">Connected Places Catapult\u2019s website<\/a> to understand how the <strong>Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) model helped Belfast City Council transform its approach to problem solving.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Read <a href=\"https:\/\/iuk-business-connect.org.uk\/casestudy\/transreports-app-revolutionises-rail-travel-for-disabled-passengers\/\">this case study<\/a> available on <a href=\"https:\/\/iuk-business-connect.org.uk\">Innovate UK\u2019s website<\/a> to gather insights on how <strong>Transreport&nbsp;has developed an award-winning Passenger Assistance app which makes travel more inclusive for passengers requiring assistance<\/strong> using Contracts for Innovation funding.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Read <a href=\"https:\/\/iuk-business-connect.org.uk\/casestudy\/innovating-water-security-watermarqs-data-driven-solutions\/\">this case study<\/a> available on <a href=\"https:\/\/iuk-business-connect.org.uk\">Innovate UK\u2019s website<\/a> to learn how <strong>Watermarq developed innovative water supply and demand analytics solutions<\/strong> with Contracts for Innovation\u2019s support.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Read <a href=\"https:\/\/iuk-business-connect.org.uk\/casestudy\/transforming-prostate-cancer-diagnosis\/\">this case study<\/a> available on <a href=\"https:\/\/iuk-business-connect.org.uk\">Innovate UK\u2019s Website<\/a> to find out about <strong>NHS Wales Challenge and its innovative solution from Ibex Medical Analytics.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Further guidance on exemptions: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/procurement-act-2023-guidance-documents-plan-phase\/guidance-exempted-contracts-html--2\">Guidance: Exempted Contracts (HTML) &#8211; GOV.UK<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-id2628_d1245c-ae > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id2628_d1245c-ae > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id2628_d1245c-ae > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id2628_d1245c-ae{border-top-left-radius:8px;border-top-right-radius:8px;border-bottom-right-radius:8px;border-bottom-left-radius:8px;overflow:clip;isolation:isolate;}.kb-row-layout-id2628_d1245c-ae > .kt-row-layout-overlay{border-top-left-radius:8px;border-top-right-radius:8px;border-bottom-right-radius:8px;border-bottom-left-radius:8px;}.kb-row-layout-id2628_d1245c-ae{border-top:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-right:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-bottom:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-left:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);}.kb-row-layout-id2628_d1245c-ae > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id2628_d1245c-ae > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id2628_d1245c-ae{border-top:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-right:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-bottom:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-left:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id2628_d1245c-ae > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id2628_d1245c-ae{border-top:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-right:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-bottom:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);border-left:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0.1);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id2628_d1245c-ae alignnone has-cpc-warm-grey-background-color kt-row-has-bg wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column2628_0cb90a-2b > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2628_0cb90a-2b > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2628_0cb90a-2b > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2628_0cb90a-2b > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2628_0cb90a-2b > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2628_0cb90a-2b > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2628_0cb90a-2b{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2628_0cb90a-2b > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2628_0cb90a-2b > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2628_0cb90a-2b\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-bold\"><strong>Additional Resources &amp; Support<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The&nbsp;Subsidy Control Act 2022&nbsp;regulates how public authorities provide financial assistance to businesses, ensuring fair competition by preventing any unfair advantages through subsidies. Subsidy control must be considered by universities, other higher education institutions, and research organisations (HEIs) receiving grant funding for research, development, or innovation projects (RD&amp;I), entering into collaborations with commercial partners, or carrying out commercial activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-style-2\">\n<li>Read <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/collections\/subsidy-control-regime\">The Subsidy Control Regime<\/a>, drafted by the UK government, which ensures fair and transparent allocation of public funds, preventing market distortion and promoting competition.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The 25-page&nbsp;<strong>Contracts for Innovation Practitioner Handbook<\/strong> [coming soon]&nbsp;provides both funders and awardees with comprehensive background information, best practice guidance and basic points for awareness at all stages of the challenge process, plus answers to FAQs. The handbook is set to launch this financial year, so stay tuned for updates.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-id2628_2b76da-1c > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id2628_2b76da-1c > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id2628_2b76da-1c > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id2628_2b76da-1c{border-left:6px solid #5fbca2;}.kb-row-layout-id2628_2b76da-1c > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id2628_2b76da-1c > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id2628_2b76da-1c{border-left:6px solid #5fbca2;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id2628_2b76da-1c > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id2628_2b76da-1c{border-left:6px solid #5fbca2;}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id2628_2b76da-1c alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column2628_92a214-63 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2628_92a214-63 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2628_92a214-63 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2628_92a214-63 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2628_92a214-63 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2628_92a214-63 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2628_92a214-63{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2628_92a214-63 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2628_92a214-63 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2628_92a214-63\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>While Grant Funding, accelerators and PCP are valuable for initial&nbsp;research and testing, the \u2018Discovery stage\u2019 is not always essential. If you have conducted thorough PME and identified innovative solutions that&nbsp;address your challenge, you may choose to bypass this stage and proceed&nbsp;directly to <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.temper.digital\/ipec-microsite\/resource\/gate-3-routes-to-market-to-scale\/\">Gate 3: Routes to Market to Scale.<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Visit <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.temper.digital\/ipec-microsite\/resource\/gate-2-the-procurement-act-2023\/\">Gate 2: The Procurement Act 2023<\/a> to explore the changes coming with the new regulations.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-id2628_ff63ae-fd > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id2628_ff63ae-fd > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id2628_ff63ae-fd > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id2628_ff63ae-fd > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id2628_ff63ae-fd > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id2628_ff63ae-fd > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id2628_ff63ae-fd alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column2628_433cf1-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2628_433cf1-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2628_433cf1-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2628_433cf1-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2628_433cf1-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2628_433cf1-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2628_433cf1-d2{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2628_433cf1-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2628_433cf1-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2628_433cf1-d2\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n\n                    \n\n\n\n<div class=\"resource-carousel\">\n    <div>\n        <div class=\"title\">\n            <h2>More To Explore<\/h2>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <p class=\"description\">While Grant Funding, accelerators and PCP are valuable for initial\u00a0research and testing, the \u2018Discovery stage\u2019 is not always essential. If you have conducted thorough PME and identified innovative solutions that\u00a0address your challenge, you may choose to bypass this stage and proceed\u00a0directly to Gate 3: Routes to Market to Scale.<\/p>\n    <div class=\"splide\" role=\"group\" aria-label=\"publication-splide\">\n        <div class=\"splide__track\">\n            <div class=\"splide__list\">\n                                                        <div class=\"splide__slide slide\">\n                                                    <div class=\"image\">\n                                <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1435\" height=\"716\" src=\"https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1350217339-1.png\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1350217339-1.png 1435w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1350217339-1-300x150.png 300w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1350217339-1-1024x511.png 1024w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1350217339-1-768x383.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1435px) 100vw, 1435px\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                                                <div class=\"content\">\n                            <h2 class=\"title\">Gate 0: Starting Point for Success<\/h2>\n                            <p class=\"excerpt\">\n                                Key ingredients for the procurement of innovation, from definition to engagement.\n                            <\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.temper.digital\/ipec-microsite\/resource\/gate-o-starting-point-for-success\/\"><\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n                                                        <div class=\"splide__slide slide\">\n                                                    <div class=\"image\">\n                                <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1309\" height=\"654\" src=\"https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1278741300-1.png\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1278741300-1.png 1309w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1278741300-1-300x150.png 300w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1278741300-1-1024x512.png 1024w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1278741300-1-768x384.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1309px) 100vw, 1309px\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                                                <div class=\"content\">\n                            <h2 class=\"title\">GATE 1: DISCOVERY OF INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS<\/h2>\n                            <p class=\"excerpt\">\n                                How to choose the best way to research and test solutions prior to the commercial stage.\n                            <\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.temper.digital\/ipec-microsite\/resource\/gate-1-discovery-of-innovative-solutions\/\"><\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n                                                        <div class=\"splide__slide slide\">\n                                                    <div class=\"image\">\n                                <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1292\" height=\"301\" src=\"https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Screenshot-2024-10-30-at-15.33.15-6.png\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Screenshot-2024-10-30-at-15.33.15-6.png 1292w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Screenshot-2024-10-30-at-15.33.15-6-300x70.png 300w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Screenshot-2024-10-30-at-15.33.15-6-1024x239.png 1024w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Screenshot-2024-10-30-at-15.33.15-6-768x179.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1292px) 100vw, 1292px\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                                                <div class=\"content\">\n                            <h2 class=\"title\">Gate 2: The Procurement Act 2023<\/h2>\n                            <p class=\"excerpt\">\n                                Raising awareness about the changes and updates on Procurement of Innovation with the new reform launched in February 2025.\n                            <\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.temper.digital\/ipec-microsite\/resource\/gate-2-the-procurement-act-2023\/\"><\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n                                                        <div class=\"splide__slide slide\">\n                                                    <div class=\"image\">\n                                <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1297\" height=\"720\" src=\"https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/shutterstock_240422590-1.png\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/shutterstock_240422590-1.png 1297w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/shutterstock_240422590-1-300x167.png 300w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/shutterstock_240422590-1-1024x568.png 1024w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/shutterstock_240422590-1-768x426.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1297px) 100vw, 1297px\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                                                <div class=\"content\">\n                            <h2 class=\"title\">Gate 3: Routes to Market to Scale<\/h2>\n                            <p class=\"excerpt\">\n                                How to adopt procedures that are aligned with the Procurement Act 2023 and are also appropriate in scope when ready to scale.\n                            <\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.temper.digital\/ipec-microsite\/resource\/gate-3-routes-to-market-to-scale\/\"><\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n                                                        <div class=\"splide__slide slide\">\n                                                    <div class=\"image\">\n                                <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1343\" height=\"894\" src=\"https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1283505104-1.png\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1283505104-1.png 1343w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1283505104-1-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1283505104-1-1024x682.png 1024w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1283505104-1-768x511.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1343px) 100vw, 1343px\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                                                <div class=\"content\">\n                            <h2 class=\"title\">Definitions: Glossary of Terms<\/h2>\n                            <p class=\"excerpt\">\n                                A handy guide to terminology and acronyms commonly used in innovation procurement.\n                            <\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.temper.digital\/ipec-microsite\/resource\/definitions-glossary-of-terms\/\"><\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n                                                        <div class=\"splide__slide slide\">\n                                                    <div class=\"image\">\n                                <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1435\" height=\"716\" src=\"https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1350217339-1.png\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1350217339-1.png 1435w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1350217339-1-300x150.png 300w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1350217339-1-1024x511.png 1024w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1350217339-1-768x383.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1435px) 100vw, 1435px\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                                                <div class=\"content\">\n                            <h2 class=\"title\">Gate 0: Starting Point for Success<\/h2>\n                            <p class=\"excerpt\">\n                                Key ingredients for the procurement of innovation, from definition to engagement.\n                            <\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.temper.digital\/ipec-microsite\/resource\/gate-o-starting-point-for-success\/\"><\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n                                                        <div class=\"splide__slide slide\">\n                                                    <div class=\"image\">\n                                <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1309\" height=\"654\" src=\"https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1278741300-1.png\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1278741300-1.png 1309w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1278741300-1-300x150.png 300w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1278741300-1-1024x512.png 1024w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1278741300-1-768x384.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1309px) 100vw, 1309px\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                                                <div class=\"content\">\n                            <h2 class=\"title\">GATE 1: DISCOVERY OF INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS<\/h2>\n                            <p class=\"excerpt\">\n                                How to choose the best way to research and test solutions prior to the commercial stage.\n                            <\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.temper.digital\/ipec-microsite\/resource\/gate-1-discovery-of-innovative-solutions\/\"><\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n                                                        <div class=\"splide__slide slide\">\n                                                    <div class=\"image\">\n                                <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1292\" height=\"301\" src=\"https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Screenshot-2024-10-30-at-15.33.15-6.png\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Screenshot-2024-10-30-at-15.33.15-6.png 1292w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Screenshot-2024-10-30-at-15.33.15-6-300x70.png 300w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Screenshot-2024-10-30-at-15.33.15-6-1024x239.png 1024w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Screenshot-2024-10-30-at-15.33.15-6-768x179.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1292px) 100vw, 1292px\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                                                <div class=\"content\">\n                            <h2 class=\"title\">Gate 2: The Procurement Act 2023<\/h2>\n                            <p class=\"excerpt\">\n                                Raising awareness about the changes and updates on Procurement of Innovation with the new reform launched in February 2025.\n                            <\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.temper.digital\/ipec-microsite\/resource\/gate-2-the-procurement-act-2023\/\"><\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n                                                        <div class=\"splide__slide slide\">\n                                                    <div class=\"image\">\n                                <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1297\" height=\"720\" src=\"https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/shutterstock_240422590-1.png\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/shutterstock_240422590-1.png 1297w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/shutterstock_240422590-1-300x167.png 300w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/shutterstock_240422590-1-1024x568.png 1024w, https:\/\/cp-ipec.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2025\/03\/shutterstock_240422590-1-768x426.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1297px) 100vw, 1297px\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                                                <div class=\"content\">\n                            <h2 class=\"title\">Gate 3: Routes to Market to Scale<\/h2>\n                            <p class=\"excerpt\">\n                                How to adopt procedures that are aligned with the Procurement Act 2023 and are also appropriate in scope when ready to scale.\n                            <\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <a href=\"https:\/\/staging.temper.digital\/ipec-microsite\/resource\/gate-3-routes-to-market-to-scale\/\"><\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"splide__arrows\">\n            <button class=\"splide__arrow splide__arrow--prev slider-arrow-container\">\n                <svg width=\"8\" height=\"14\" viewBox=\"0 0 8 14\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <path d=\"M7 13L1 7L7 1\" stroke=\"#2E2D2B\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\"\n                          stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\/>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/button>\n            <button class=\"splide__arrow splide__arrow--next slider-arrow-container\">\n                <svg width=\"8\" 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