Open Call
HMGCC Co-Creation: Sandpit event to explore wearable technologies
Overview
Experts can apply to take part in a two-day interactive sandpit event focused on discreet wearable technologies for use in national security and defence.
This challenge examines the latest research into the wearing of inconspicuous technology – looking at factors such as materials, fabrics, clothing design or other solutions. These wearable devices should be comfortable, flexible and able to help the wearer move freely without interrupting the technology itself.
The latest challenge from HMGCC Co-Creation is looking for applicants from relevant industries which could be as broad as fashion and theatre, electronics, mechanical engineering, materials, behavioural science, user centric design – among others.
To be considered, applicants must complete an application form and send in a CV – see section ‘Sandpit – how to apply’.
HMGCC Co-Creation will provide funding for time, materials, overheads and other indirect expenses for successful projects. But please note, attendance at the sandpit does not guarantee ongoing HMGCC Co-Creation funding following this period.
Technology themes
Behavioural and social sciences, electronic engineering, energy storage, engineering design consultancy, healthcare manufacturing, materials science and engineering, systems engineering, wearable technologies.
Key information
Total budget (ex VAT) – a portfolio approach will be taken: £200,000
Competition opens – application to attend sandpit: Monday 1 December 2025
Competition closes – application to attend sandpit: Thursday 15 January 2026
Sandpit event: Tuesday 10 February 2026 to Wednesday 11 February 2026 in Milton Keynes
Target project kick-off for successful proposal(s): March 2026
Project duration: 12 weeks
Context of the challenge
Wearable technology for the consumer has shown large market growth in recent years, largely dominated by smart watches. There has also been significant investment in next generation wearables, where cabling, energy storage and useable devices are further embedded into garments, enabling greater useability while also increased ergonomics and comfort.
As there is a potential consumer market in fields such as sportswear and the medical sector, there is also a specialised national security and defence market, utilising similar underpinning technology but where different capabilities may be required.
Who should apply?
This challenge is open to sole innovators, industry, academic and research organisations of all types and sizes. There is no requirement for security clearances.
Solution providers or direct collaboration from countries listed by the UK government under trade sanctions and/or arms embargoes, are not eligible for HMGCC Co-Creation challenges.
Competition opens
Briefing Call
10- 11am
Teams Briefing Call
Clarifying questions deadline
Clarifying questions published
Competition closes
Applicant notified
Feb
Sandpit event
Milton Keynes
Pitch day
Online
Pitch day outcome
Commercial onboarding begins*
Target project kick-off
March 2026
*Please note, the successful solution provider will be expected to have availability for a 1-hour onboarding call via MS Teams on the date and time specified to begin the onboarding/contractual process.
Application process
Applications close 15 January 2026
Please find details on how to apply, as well as more information about the challenge, here.
Supporting documents
HMGCC Co-Creation supporting information
HMGCC works with the national security community, UK government, academia, private sector partners and international allies to bring engineering ingenuity to the national security mission, creating tools and technologies that drive us ahead and help to protect the nation.
HMGCC Co–Creation is a partnership between HMGCC and Dstl (Defence Science and Technology Laboratory), created to deliver a new, bold and innovative way of working with the wider UK science and technology community. We bring together the best in class across industry, academia, and government, to work collaboratively on national security engineering challenges and accelerate innovation.
HMGCC Co-Creation aims to work collaboratively with the successful solution providers by utilising in-house delivery managers working Agile by default. This process will involve access to HMGCC Co-Creation’s technical expertise and facilities to bring a product to market more effectively than traditional customer supplier relationships.
