Commercialisation help for NERC research centres
We give high priority to commercialising the science done in our research centres.
Targets for key commercialisation outputs are agreed with NERC research centres and performance against these is reviewed each year. Targets include metrics for: the number of new ideas generated; the number of new projects initiated; the number of awards from the NERC Innovation Fund; the number of patents filed, and the number of deals completed.
Support and advice on licensing and spin-outs
The innovation team's Commercialisation managers can help NERC research centre scientists assess and, if appropriate, develop the commercial potential of an idea. If you have an idea that you think might be suitable for commercialisation, or you want to know more about exploitation within your area of NERC, please contact one of the business development managers.
The innovation team will help you progress your commercial ideas with minimal intrusion into your time, allowing you to decide your level of involvement and control.
The team is focused on developing NERC-owned intellectual property (IP) and provides expertise and help with:
- Intellectual property and patenting
- Market research
- Business development
- Funding
Funding commercial ideas
Our internal Innovation Fund provides up to £100 000 of funding for ideas with commercial potential in our research centres. The innovation team may also be able to help you source further funding of up to £250 000 through the Rainbow Seed Fund 
.
Funding may also be available through the Follow-on Fund.
The Environment Young Entrepreneurs Scheme can provide an insight into commercialisation for PhD students and early post-docs.