The SME Strand recognises impactful collaborations between universities and small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs).
This strand celebrates collaborations that demonstrate how university partnerships can help SMEs develop technologies, scale innovation and create economic and societal impact.
The prize for this strand is £25,000.
Application deadline: 7 July 2026
Who is eligible to be nominated?
- The collaboration must include a UK university or college and one or more SME partners.
- The collaboration should normally demonstrate at least two years of sustained engagement.
- The collaboration should demonstrate meaningful partnership between the SME and the university
Why apply?
The Bhattacharyya Award offers:
- National recognition for exceptional collaboration
- Visibility across industry, academia and policy communities
- Opportunities to connect with the Academy’s network of leaders and innovators
- Support to strengthen and expand the partnership
Shortlisted and winning collaborations may also be featured in Academy publications and events.
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