Global Business Innovation Programme - Robotics & Automation in Manufacturing, Japan

Innovate UK ICURe; Swindon; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job description

Innovate UK is inviting ambitious innovative companies to participate in its Global Business Innovation Programme (GBIP). Each GBIP aims to help UK businesses grow and scale on a global stage through building R&D and innovation collaborations and partnerships and accelerating access to the market.

To apply, you must be a UK-based company with fewer than 250 employees. The application must be made by the CEO, founder, or senior decision maker in the business, and they must be able to attend all workshops and complete all activities.

The programme consists of a Get ready preparation phase followed by a market visit to Japan, including a 5-day tailored programme to connect with businesses, research organisations, and other key stakeholders, followed by an Exploit the opportunity workshop. Participants will benefit from bespoke support from an innovation and growth specialist to leverage contacts, opportunities, and knowledge for business growth.

Successful applicants will benefit from an intensive 9-12 month, three-phase programme:

1. Get ready: A two-day workshop to build knowledge of the market, including cultural aspects, IP protection, and value proposition articulation.
2. Visit the market: Explore innovation opportunities through matchmaking, meetings, and research collaborations.
3. Exploit the opportunity: An exploitation workshop and one-to-one support to maximize opportunities.

Applicants must:

• Be innovation-led UK companies with ambitions to grow globally
• Have fewer than 250 employees
• Be led by a CEO, founder, or senior decision maker
• Be able to attend all workshops and activities

This GBIP targets technology providers capable of delivering innovative solutions for manufacturing, focusing on robotics, automation, and AI. The programme is part of the MSI Challenge, with other GBIPs focused on Germany, Singapore, South Korea, and the USA. A business can apply to up to two of these five GBIPs.

Applicants with previous GBIP participation must demonstrate exploitation of prior opportunities and added value from this programme. Typically, a business can participate in only two GBIPs within any rolling 12-month period.

Innovate UK encourages applications from under-represented groups and is committed to accessibility. Support is available for applicants with disabilities or long-term conditions. Contact us at least 15 working days before the deadline for guidance.

Contact: [e-mail] or call 0300 321 4357 (9am-12pm, 2pm-5pm UK time, Mon-Fri).

Japan is a leader in robotics and automation, with significant government support for next-generation robotic systems, including cobots, AMRs, and AI-enhanced systems. UK companies in robotics, automation software, machine vision, and AI can find opportunities for joint R&D, technology transfer, and participation in government projects.

Participants will attend the Factory Innovation Week conference and other activities, including site visits, networking, and meetings with key research and technology organisations. Innovate UK will fund flights, accommodation, in-market travel, and conference fees for successful applicants, with one representative per company required to participate throughout.

Upon acceptance, a £1000 commitment fee will be collected, refundable upon full participation and completion of activities. Non-completion may result in forfeiting the fee.

For questions, email [e-mail]. The application form and template are available online.