BIO-WISE

What is it?

BIO-WISE is a major UK Government Programme funded by the DTI. It aims to improve the competitiveness of UK industry through the use of biotechnology and supports the development of the UK biotechnology supplier industry. They provide a range of services ranging from advice, publications, visits from industrial biotechnology specialists, events and grant support. BIO-WISE is committed to encouraging the commercial application of novel biotechnology solutions. Therefore it offers financial support, through the Demonstrator Project Competition, to help fund user-led collaborative projects with the potential to stimulate the more widespread use of biotechnology.

Who can apply?

Demonstrator projects will normally involve the collaboration of at least two organisations of any size, each of which is contributing funds and/or effort. The key biotechnology should normally be sourced from UK suppliers.

How much does the company pay?

The financial support available is usually up to 25% of total eligible project costs. However, additional support may be available in accordance with European Union State Aid rules. It depends on the number of SMEs within the collaboration and the location of the project within an area of regional assistance. There is no set minimum or maximum project size, although grant support is usually in the range of £25,000 - £250,000.

When can you apply?

Applications are accepted at any time and are assessed as and when they are received.

£1 million still up for grabs

Hurry, hurry, hurry - £1 million is still available from the BIO-WISE Demonstrator Project competition to help fund novel biotechnology applications.

Recently, a grant has been offered to C-Tech Innovation, Chester, to demonstrate a bioelectrochemical application for the recovery of precious metals from scrap printed circuit boards.

That brings the total awarded by BIO-WISE to nearly £2 million for 15 novel applications of industrial biotechnology. Further projects are currently being assessed, with £1 million waiting to be allocated.

Further details

BIO-WISE Helpline on freephone 0800 432100

• www.biowise.org.uk