Henry Royce Institute Access Schemes

The Henry Royce Institute Access Schemes provide funded and subsidised access to world-class materials science and engineering facilities for UK researchers, students and SMEs. The programme helps organisations overcome technical barriers, accelerate innovation and access specialist equipment that may otherwise be unavailable or cost-prohibitive. It supports projects involving the development, testing and characterisation of advanced materials, helping users address research challenges and improve understanding of material performance and failure.

The scheme is open to UK-based SMEs, spin-outs and start-ups, as well as doctoral students, research masters students and academic researchers. For businesses, the SME Equipment Access Scheme provides subsidised access to Royce’s extensive equipment portfolio, helping to de-risk materials-based research and development and support proof-of-concept studies. The programme helps companies validate new concepts, explore innovative materials applications and build relationships with leading research institutions.

Academic applicants can access specialist facilities across the Royce partner network to undertake research projects, develop new methodologies and strengthen collaborations within the UK materials community. Funding supports the use of advanced equipment and technical expertise that can enhance research quality and accelerate project delivery.

Applications are submitted through the relevant Royce facility or partner institution. Technical experts work with applicants to refine experimental plans, identify suitable equipment and schedule facility access. Eligible projects should demonstrate a clear materials-related challenge, contribute to improved understanding of materials behaviour, or support the development of new research techniques and capabilities.

This opportunity is particularly relevant to advanced manufacturing, engineering, materials technology, clean technology and research-intensive businesses seeking access to specialist facilities without the cost of investing in equipment themselves. The scheme offers a practical route to testing ideas, developing prototypes, validating innovations and building future research and commercial collaborations.

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