Back
GrantScotland

Research and Development Grants (Scottish Enterprise)

Scottish Enterprise

Description

Funds larger-scale research and development projects for Scottish businesses, covering 35–50% of eligible costs for SMEs (25–40% for large companies) working independently, with additional support available for consortium projects. Aimed at significant innovation with clear commercial prospects rather than routine product updates, and pitched at a larger scale than the smaller SMART: SCOTLAND grant also listed in this directory — the minimum grant is £250,000, reflecting an expected minimum project spend of around £1 million.

Amount

35–50% of eligible project costs for SMEs (25–40% for large companies), minimum grant £250,000

Deadline

Rolling / no fixed deadline

Eligibility summary

  • Available in: Scotland.
  • Applicant must be a registered business.
  • Most relevant to: Technology & Digital, Manufacturing, Research & Development.
Notes
Delivered by Scottish Enterprise specifically, not Highlands and Islands Enterprise or South of Scotland Enterprise — businesses in those two enterprise areas should check the equivalent HIE/SOSE offer instead. Minimum grant £250,000 puts this well beyond typical small-business scale.
Requirement
Scottish-based businesses (or those planning to locate in Scotland) in the area directly served by Scottish Enterprise — not a sole trader or charity. The project must represent significant innovation for the company with genuine commercial prospects, and would not proceed (or would be significantly reduced in scope) without the grant.

Want help with this application?

R&D claims and business grants are exactly where a specialist can make the biggest difference — both in claim size and time saved. We're building relationships with vetted professionals who can help with applications like this — register your interest and we'll follow up when we have someone to recommend.

Some of the organisations we may connect you with pay us a referral fee if you use their service. This never affects which listings you see in the directory. No live partner is confirmed yet for this listing.

You can also do this yourself for free via the official source

How to apply

Submit an enquiry form to enquiries@scotent.co.uk; if eligible, an appraisal specialist guides the formal application and due-diligence process.

View official source

Last verified: 19 August 2026. See the footer disclaimer — this is general information, not financial or tax advice.