The Proof of Concept Grant Fund is a non-dilutive funding program managed by Techstart Ventures LLP to support entrepreneurs in Northern Ireland. It provides grants to help founders validate innovative ideas and assess their commercial potential at a pre-commercial stage.
Program Overview
- Funding Amount:
- Concept Grant: up to £15,000
- Concept Plus Grant: up to £30,000
- Funding Type: 100% funded, non-dilutive grants
- Focus: Open to both tech and non-tech ideas with no sector restrictions
- Objective: Support early validation, feasibility testing, and market exploration
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to Sole Traders, Partnerships, and Limited Companies
- Applicant must be the founder (and majority shareholder if applying via a company)
- Must be a resident of Northern Ireland (company must also be registered there)
- Must present a novel and innovative concept
- Not eligible:
- Social enterprises or Community Interest Companies
- Companies already funded by Techstart equity
- University spinouts with institutional ownership
Eligible Activities and Costs
- Prototype or concept development
- Market research and customer validation
- IP assessment (excluding protection costs)
- External expert or consultancy support
- Employment costs (Limited Companies only, capped at 30%)
Ineligible Costs
- Company formation or legal fees
- IP registration (e.g., patents, trademarks)
- Marketing or sales activities
- Equipment such as laptops or tablets
- Office rent, overheads, or admin costs
- Costs incurred before grant approval
Application Process
- Submit an online application before the deadline
- Eligible applicants are invited to a pitch and Q&A session
- Applications are evaluated and selected by Techstart
- Successful applicants must complete the Innovate NI Assessment before funding drawdown
Funding Disbursement
- Grants are paid in arrears based on approved expenses
- Requires submission of invoices, receipts, and reports
- Final payment is released after project completion and review
The Proof of Concept Grant Fund is an excellent opportunity for early-stage founders in Northern Ireland to test and validate innovative ideas with non-dilutive funding. With grants of up to £30,000 and a focus on pre-commercial development, the program enables entrepreneurs to reduce risk, gain market insights, and take the first steps toward building scalable ventures. Founders with strong, novel concepts are encouraged to apply and leverage this support to move from idea to opportunity.