ATI Programme strategic batch EoI – October 2025

Overview

‍The ATI Programme strategic batch Expression of Interest (EoI) supports UK civil aerospace research and capital infrastructure projects that align with the UK Aerospace Technology Strategy. This phase focuses on submitting EoIs, which are reviewed by the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI), with funding awarded at the full stage. The programme is managed by the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), Innovate UK, and ATI, aiming to maintain and grow the UK’s competitive position in civil aerospace.

Scope

Projects must carry out research or capital infrastructure work in the UK, intend to exploit results in the UK, and address specific objectives of the UK Aerospace Technology Strategy. Proposals can focus on industrial research or capital infrastructure aligned with civil aerospace priorities. Projects must start on the first of the month and comply with the ATI framework agreement.

Key themes and topics

• Zero Carbon Emission Aircraft Technologies (battery, hydrogen, fuel cell technologies)
• Ultra Efficient Aircraft Technologies (energy efficiency, sustainable manufacturing)
• Cross-cutting Enabling Technologies (whole aircraft design, lifecycle analysis)
• Non-CO2 Technologies (reducing environmental impacts of non-CO2 emissions)

Project duration‍

Projects should start on the first of the month and be proportionate to objectives within the UK Aerospace Technology Strategy. Typical durations are determined at the full-stage application.

Award value

This competition operates in two phases. Phase 1 is an expression of interest and does not provide direct funding. Only applicants who are successful in Phase 1 will be invited to apply for Phase 2, where funding of up to £18 million will be available.

Funding rates

• Industrial research: small/micro (70%), medium (60%), large (50%)
• Research organisations in non-economic activity: up to 100% of eligible costs
• Capital infrastructure projects: maximum 50% of total eligible costs; non-economic partners may claim 100% of their own costs

Eligibility criteria

• Lead organisation: UK-registered businesses, RTOs, research organisations, or academic institutions
• Collaborators: UK-registered businesses, academic institutions, charities, not-for-profits, public sector organisations, RTOs
• Non-funded partners (including non-UK) allowed
• Must not gain selective economic advantage; must comply with Subsidy Control Act 2022 or Windsor Framework
• Must sign ATI framework agreement