Overview

The Critical Materials Supply ChainsInvestment Readiness Programme (IRP) returns for itsthirdyear in September 2026.

Background
Building on previously successful iterations, this Investment Readiness Programme (IRP) is being delivered by Innovate UK Business Connect, as part of the Critical Materials Supply Chains Innovation Network. This IRP is strategically aligned to Innovate UKs Advanced Manufacturing sector delivery, as part of the Governments Industrial Strategy, and will help ambitious growth oriented SMEs, operating across critical minerals and materials, to be more attractive to investors. 

IUK Business Connect will support the delivery of this Investment Readiness Programme and will select up to 15 SMEs to benefit from the support described below which will accelerate their investment journey.

What to expect
Selected companies will benefit from a 12-week hybrid programme, combining expert-led online and in-person workshops. These sessions are designed not just to deliver content, but to foster deep peer-to-peer learning, build trusted relationships, and provide direct access to experts. Participation for in-person workshops is strongly encouraged to maximise the value of the programme, especially in terms of building your network and benefiting from real-time, collaborative feedback. 

Programme Overview:
The programme will support you to hone your pitch to investors, get a better understanding of the funding landscape, prepare your investment materials and be more confident in delivering a compelling commercial story. The programme will provide regular touch points with investors and mentors to help you navigate the fundraising process, make new connections and further your investment journey. The Programme will culminate in a live Showcase event where selected cohort members will pitch to an audience of investors active in the battery and critical materials sectors.

At the end of the Programme, you’ll have: 

  • Developed a suite of investor pitch materials (elevator deck/investor deck/demo deck etc.). 
  • Greater confidence in investor meetings, negotiations and due diligence. 
  • Clear articulation of your value proposition, market, IP, financials, and growth plans.  
  • Gained pitch feedback from investors & industry experts.  
  • Built collaborative relationships with your cohort, industry experts & Innovate UK representatives along the way.  
  • A live investor pitch experience at our final Showcase in January 2027 (if selected). 


What are the benefits?
This programme is designed specifically for established companies that are actively developing a defined product or solution. If you've recently incorporated and are still shaping your idea, this may not be the right time to apply. The content is tailored for SMEs who are preparing to engage with investors in the next 6–12 months and need support refining their pitch, investment materials, and fundraising strategy.  

We focus on developing and championing diversity of talent which we know will create a stronger ecosystem for the UK. We strongly encourage applications from under-represented individuals.

Eligibility 

  • UK registered SME. 
  • Actively developing hardware or software solutions in any critical materials value chain (example; materials, processing technology, recycling, alternatives, enabling technologies). 
  • Seeking to build relationships with private investors and/or raise capital in the next 6– 12 months. 
  • You must not have participated in any previous Innovate UK Critical Materials Investment Readiness Programmes in 2024 or 2025.


Proposed dates for in person delivery (London Venue) 

  • 12 October 2026 
  • 2 November 2026 
  • 10 December 2026 
  • 25 January 2026 

Expression of Interest application

Expression of interest closes on the 4th September 2026. You will be notified if you have been selected on the week commencing 14th September 2026

To express your interest in taking part in the Investor Readiness Programme 2026 please upload a 5 minute video describing your company and relevant technology in your EOI application. Your video should be a standard MP4 format.

If you have any questions, please contact Catherine Mort.

Click Express Your Interest below to complete your application.

Event details

WHEN

Multiple Dates

WHERE

In-Person & Online 

Locations TBC

PLANNER

Jordan Meadows
jordan.meadows@iukbc.org.uk