Welcome to the DTI's Research and Development webpages. These pages are intended as a guide to help companies access the practical support to invest in R&D. Here you can find information about R&D and innovation, including information about available government support for businesses embarking on R&D projects.

What is R&D?

R&D can be defined as any project to resolve scientific or technological uncertainty aimed at achieving an advance in science or technology. Advances include new or improved products, processes and services...more

Why R&D matters to companies

R&D plays an important role in the innovation process. It results in the technology that brings new products and services to the market place. Innovation results in high quality jobs, successful businesses, better goods and services and more efficient processes....more

Government Support for R&D

The R&D Tax Credits, the Technology Programme and other R&D Support Products have all been introduced by Government as practical solutions designed to help companies fulfil their R&D aspirations....more

R&D and Innovation

The DTI Innovation Report defines innovation as the successful exploitation of new ideas. Innovation is about staying one step ahead of the competition. Successful innovation results in an organisation being able to anticipate customer needs and bring new value added products and services to local and world markets. Investing in R&D helps create these products and services. The innovation that results from sustained investment in R&D, combined with other related investment at the right levels, is essential in creating new jobs and providing the innovative environment that is crucial to improving the UK productivity and prosperity levels. It is equally vital to many companies looking to sustain and grow profits.

Defining R&D | R&D Tax Credits | R&D Products | R&D Links