Get ready for CivTech Round 12
In September, we'll launch a brand-new set of CivTech Challenges.
That means innovators, entrepreneurs, start-ups and businesses from across Scotland and beyond will once again have the opportunity to work with public sector organisations to solve real-world problems and develop products that have the potential to make a genuine difference.
If you've never applied to CivTech before, now is the perfect time to start getting ready.
First things first: you don't have to be a big company
One of the things we hear most often is: "We're probably too small for CivTech."
The truth is, CivTech is open to individuals, early-stage teams, start-ups, SMEs and established businesses. What we're looking for is fresh thinking, strong ideas and people who are excited about tackling difficult problems.
You also don't need previous experience of working with the public sector. Many successful CivTech teams started with a great idea and a willingness to learn.
What makes CivTech different?
Every CivTech Challenge starts with a real problem being faced by a public sector organisation.
Rather than prescribing a solution, Challenge Sponsors describe the problem they are trying to solve and invite applications from those with potential solutions. Successful applicants then work directly with the Challenge Sponsor to develop, test and refine their ideas.
It a collaborative approach that enables solutions to be developed alongside the customer from day one.
From idea to Accelerator
The CivTech process is designed to help teams turn their ideas into real solutions.
Shortlisted applicants begin with a paid three-week Exploration Stage, receiving £5,000 to work alongside their Challenge Sponsor, learn more about the problem they're trying to solve and develop their proposed solution.
The strongest teams then progress to the 15-week CivTech Accelerator, where they receive £40,000 to build a working prototype. Payments are made throughout the programme and following participation in Demo Day. You keep ownership of your intellectual property, no equity is taken in your business, and for many teams the journey doesn't end there, with opportunities for further funding to continue developing and commercialising their solution beyond the Accelerator.
Get ready before Challenges launch
When the new Challenges go live in September, you'll want to be ready to apply. A few simple things you can do now:
Sign up to the CivTech mailing list for updates.
Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and X. You'll find links to all our social channels in the top right-hand corner of this page.
Make sure you're registered on Public Contracts Scotland (PCS), where the Challenges will be formally published.
Come and chat to us
We'll also be running a series of online drop-in sessions throughout the open call period.
Whether you're completely new to CivTech or you've applied before, these sessions are a chance to meet the team, learn more about the programme and ask any questions you might have. Each session will include a short presentation, followed by plenty of time for conversation, questions and discussion in a relaxed and informal setting.
Want to learn more?
Visit our FAQs for answers to common questions about applying.
Explore our Case Studies to see how previous teams have turned ideas into impact.
Read our June blog: What everyone asks us about CivTech — CivTech