Engineering Biology
Engineering Biology (EngBio) provides us with the opportunity to step away from traditional methods and provide innovative solutions for challenges brought by climate change and the associated impact areas, like food availability and the need for sustainable feedstocks.

EngBio applies engineering principles to biology and enables us to build and manufacture novel biological systems and products. Together with Industrial Biotechnology, the two sectors are the driving force behind achieving UK’s ambitious goal of doubling the BioEconomy by 2030. We are also working closely with the Engineering Biology Leadership Council and UKRI to ensure the UK is a world leader in Engineering Biology.
Innovate UK KTN works across the EngBio innovation pipeline, enabling the translation of engineering biology into commercial outputs. We highlight industry contacts, researchers and relevant stakeholders that can help you explore novel bio-based solutions.
Read our latest article exploring the role Industrial Biotechnology and Engineering Biology can play in helping us move towards producing our chemicals and materials from alternative, sustainable feedstocks.
Related Opportunities
Launchpad: life & health sciences, Northern Ireland
Opens: 30/10/2023 Closes: 13/12/2023
UK registered organisations can apply for a share of up to £2m for business led projects in the life and health sciences innovation cluster in Northern Ireland.
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DASA competition: Engineering Biology for Defence and Security – Phase 2
Opens: 01/11/2023 Closes: 17/01/2024
Up to £500,000 (ex VAT) funding available for innovative engineering biology technologies, funded by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl).
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SBRI: Plant health innovations for biosecurity
Opens: 06/11/2023 Closes: 20/12/2023
This competition aims to accelerate innovative solutions, technologies or practices that enhance plant health and biosecurity.
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Transforming Cancer Therapeutics
Opens: 15/11/2023 Closes: 24/01/2024
UK registered businesses can apply for a share of up to £10m to develop next generation immunotherapies for cancer or life-changing treatments for paediatric cancers.
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Launchpad: bio-based manufacturing in Scotland
Opens: 30/10/2023 Closes: 13/12/2023
UK registered organisations can apply for a share of up to £2m for business led projects in the bio-based manufacturing innovation cluster in Scotland.
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Innovate UK Smart Grants September 2023
Opens: 28/09/2023 Closes: 17/01/2024
Apply for a share of up to £25m for game-changing and commercially viable R&D innovations that can significantly impact the UK economy.