Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 8
8
Accepted
Effectiveness of new tools to access net zero innovation funding remains unproven.
Recommendation
While DSIT said it did not regret the fact that there is a large number of programmes, it recognised that it is important to make the sources of funding “accessible” and “understandable”. It explained that UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), a non- departmental public body sponsored by DSIT, is developing a Simpler and Better Funding programme to make it easier for applicants to find funding opportunities.23 Innovate UK, part of UKRI, has recently launched the latest version of its online Innovation Hub.24 This is intended to serve as a “front door” for helping businesses understand what support might be available, and is a search tool so that businesses can see the range of government innovation support in one place.25 DSIT saw this online portal as a “useful and important step forward”.26 While these tools are in the early stage of use, it is too early to tell whether they have made it easier for businesses to find government support for net zero research and innovation,27 or whether prompt decisions are being taken on applications for support. Consumers’ adoption of new technologies
Government Response Summary
The government agrees to improve accessibility and understanding of funding opportunities, committing the Net Zero Innovation Board to review the R&I portfolio and assess progress by Summer 2024 to inform future allocation decisions.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
2.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: Summer 2024 2.2 The scale and breadth of the net zero transition means a wide range of programmes will likely continue to be required as we determine the pathways towards net zero that are most effective, sustainable and represent the best value for money. 2.3 The government recognises that the current funding landscape can be complex for businesses to navigate and has taken steps to improve accessibility and understanding of innovation funding support. This includes publishing the Net Zero Research and Innovation Framework Delivery Plan that details the allocation of £4.2 billion of spending and the resulting programmes being supported over the current Spending Review period, aligned to the priorities in the Net Zero Research and Innovation Framework. Innovate UK has also launched an Innovation Hub which aims to help businesses find public funding and support for innovation in one place. 2.4 The Net Zero Innovation Board, chaired by the Government Chief Scientific Advisor, will review the current net zero R&I portfolio and consider evidence to assess progress and emerging R&I challenges for support. This will inform future allocation decisions, recognising the fast-paced nature of innovation needed to deliver net zero.