CoSTAR Ideate supports the development of micro, start-ups and early-growth companies looking to scale new IP in the creative technology sector. Delivered via the National CoSTAR network, Ideate marries access to cutting-edge facilities, creative and technology expertise and world-leading research that is attuned to the unique growth stage(s) of creative enterprises.

The programme presents a unique offer of support to industry from four CoSTAR Network Labs, creating a pathway for companies to engage directly with CoSTAR expertise and infrastructure, to harness IP for business growth.

CoSTAR Ideate provides:

  • A 5-month residency for 24 enterprises, 6 in each of the 4 CoSTAR Labs: National Lab, Realtime Lab, Screen Lab and Live Lab.
  • Growth Lab business development sessions delivered by CodeBase and sector experts, helping entrepreneurs to develop specific skills and strategies to benefit and accelerate their business growth plans.
  • A low-risk route for company and product development through lab development time at CoSTAR Network facilities.
  • Access to technical support and resources at CoSTAR lab facilities, designed to ‘fill the gaps’ in IP and company development pipelines.
  • Access to specialised research within the CoSTAR Network.
  • 1-2-1 business growth, IP development and best practice in inclusive and sustainable innovation mentorship from UK sector experts that can tangibly help develop the business and IP further.
  • Co-location services (desk space/ lab space) for participants on the programme.
  • Access to a community of like-minded startups and entrepreneurs developing creative technology solutions for the creative technology sector.

The program takes no equity and there are no fees to apply.
The structure of the programme allows for companies to integrate support into their day-to-day business activity.  Through the application process, companies have an opportunity to present their ideas and outline how the support on offer at a CoSTAR Network Lab, matches their IP and business growth ambitions. The programme is ideally suited to companies who are looking for a de-risked route to develop new IP to drive business growth.

There is no fee to participate in CoSTAR E&C.  The programme is funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC).  The value of in-kind value of support to participants on the programme is estimated to be £55,000 per company.
A company stipend of £2,000 is available to companies to support travel and accommodation to attend in person activity.  This will be managed by the National Lab.
A Participation Support Bursary is available to support participation, in line with our Social Impact Plan, for eligible individuals who may face additional barriers to participation.

Find out more and apply. Deadline 24 March 2025.