This pilot programme is for ambitious innovators with high-growth solutions that address identified challenges in the freight and logistics sector. If you have already demonstrated the technical feasibility of your solution and are looking to further strengthen your commercial growth in the freight and logistics sector, this programme can help you refine your route to market, prepare for deployment at scale, and improve investor-readiness. 

As an extension of the Freight Innovation Fund Accelerator, which focuses on technical validation through real-world trials, the Venture Growth Programme supports the next stage of growth. Through bespoke support, tailored to participants, successful candidates can refine their commercial proposition, strengthen deployment planning and build many of the capabilities needed for long-term growth.  Alongside bespoke, business-specific support, participants will gain access to our network of freight and logistics operators and investors, which can help them validate commercial opportunities, develop strategic partnerships and strengthen their investment case. 

Where appropriate, we may identify opportunities for complementary technologies to be combined into stronger commercial propositions. We will focus on validating routes to market and scale, including partnerships, licensing, investment, acquisition, or other commercial models that could unlock new growth opportunities. 

Delivered through the Department for Transport (DfT) Freight Innovation Fund, the Venture Growth Programme builds on Connected Places Catapult’s deep, existing sector expertise, trusted relationships across the freight and logistics industry and proven capability to support high-potential innovations progress beyond validation and towards commercially viable, investable businesses. 

Please note that no grant funding will be available through this opportunity, only in-kind support from Connected Places Catapult.