Supporting SME innovation through live freight trials.
Shoreham Port has been selected by the Department for Transport (DfT) as a host location for the Freight Innovation Fund Accelerator 2026 – Cohort 5, delivered by Connected Places Catapult.
The Freight Innovation Fund Accelerator is a national competition designed to support innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) developing new solutions for the freight sector. Successful applicants can receive up to £110,000 in grant funding, alongside the opportunity to trial and develop their innovations in a live operational environment with a host organisation.
As an approved host, Shoreham Port will work directly with one of the winning SMEs to support real-world testing, helping to accelerate the development and deployment of new freight technologies and services.
While the funding call is open nationwide, the Port is particularly keen to see Sussex-based businesses apply, creating the opportunity for local innovation to be supported, funded, and demonstrated at the Port.
Full details of the Freight Innovation Fund Accelerator, including eligibility and how to apply, are available via Connected Places Catapult.