Blue Sky Proof-of-Concept Fund

Cambridge NeuroWorks’ Blue Sky Proof-of-Concept Fund (PoC) is designed to enable robust experimentation on adventurous, early-stage neurotechnology hypotheses.

At the beginning of the year, we invited proposals for six-month neurotechnology projects focused on testing new hypotheses. Applications are now closed and eight candidates have been selected, project reveal coming soon.

We embraced a high-risk, high-impact approach: projects that generated a proof-of-concept that accelerated neurotechnology translation or – equally importantly - disproved a hypothesis that enabled a pivot to a stronger idea.  

The applicants selected are de-risking bold concepts, encouraging patient involvement and have been provided access to subject matter experts and the Cambridge NeuroWorks ecosystem, we empowered them to deliver transformative impact on some of the most pressing neurological conditions of our time.   

What we were seeking

We welcomed ambitious proposals from anyone with a bold and clear hypothesis that could revolutionise neurotechnology and improve patient outcomes. 

Research proposals were to be ambitious, address a clinical need, and align with the ARIA's Scalable Neural Interface Opportunity Space. The project will be completed within six months and provide a clear outcome on whether the underlying hypothesis holds up. 

The successful applicants demonstrated a deep understanding of the problem they aim to solve and the potential impact of their solution. To ensure streamlined delivery of short, intensive projects, we prioritised proposals from individuals with relevant prior experience and/or those able to collaborate with academic experts.

All projects are being delivered through UK Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to guarantee access to suitable research environments.  

How the Blue Sky Proof-of-Concept Fund works

This UK-wide scheme funds neurotechnology projects of up to six months, unlocking access to existing research environments within Higher Education Institutions and offering up to £50,000 funding towards eligible direct costs.  

£ 50,000
A budget of up to £50,000 to cover eligible project costs
6 months
Dedicated to hypothesis-testing your project

Throughout their project, they’ll receive support from the Cambridge NeuroWorks network, including resourced access to subject matter experts. 


What we are committing to:

  • Awarding a budget of up to £50,000 to cover eligible project costs: 

    • The grant covers 100% of relevant expenditure, including directly allocated and directly incurred costs 

    • Please note that indirect costs, overheads, and large capital equipment costs are not covered 

  • Resourcing mutually agreed access to subject-matter experts and advisory support throughout their project 

  • Maintaining regular contact to actively support their work and integrate it within the Cambridge NeuroWorks ecosystem, helping them unlock the full benefits of its wider network


What they are committing to:

  • Explaining the problem they aim to address and their vision for how the project could benefit patients in the longer term

  • Rigorously testing an ambitious hypothesis and defining clear criteria for the possible project outcomes 

  • Identifying a UK Higher Education Institution (HEI) with the facilities and willingness to host their project. 

  • Leading the project within the agreed budget and timeframe  

  • Starting the project between 15th June and 15th September 2026

  • Maintaining regular contact with the Cambridge NeuroWorks team

  • Reporting progress against agreed project milestones and budget

We are focused on

Empowering pioneering researchers and innovators

Providing the freedom, resources, and network needed to pursue high-risk, high-impact Proof-of-Concept projects at any UK HEI.

Cultivating a new culture

Providing a collaborative framework for HEIs hosting adventurous, early-stage neurotechnology projects. 

Accelerating breakthroughs

Derisking of bold ideas, access to mentorship, and encouraging early patient involvement to drive transformative impact.  

Activating a UK-wide neurotech network

We're building a UK-wide neurotech community and research infrastructure. The Proof-of-Concept fund supports projects across the UK.