ICURe A pre‑accelerator helping researchers test and commercialise their ideas.
ICURe (Innovation‑to‑Commercialisation of University Research) is a UK‑wide pre‑accelerator programme designed to help researchers explore the commercial potential of their research.
Delivered by Innovate UK, ICURe supports early‑stage research teams in testing whether their ideas could become viable products, spin‑out companies, or licensing opportunities. It provides funding, training, and mentoring to help researchers understand markets, identify customers, and build the foundations for commercialisation.
The programme is structured as a staged pathway, allowing participants to progress from early exploration to company formation. Across each stage, researchers develop skills in market validation, business model development, and investment readiness, while engaging with industry experts and potential users.
ICURe focuses strongly on customer discovery and real-world validation, helping researchers move beyond the lab and test their ideas in practical market contexts. Many participants go on to form spin-outs or secure further funding and partnerships.
ICURe is delivered through four progressive stages:
This staged approach enables teams to build confidence and evidence before committing to venture creation.
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