Short answer
Innovate UK grant claims are usually made quarterly, after the spend. Each claim includes the costs you've incurred by category, evidence such as timesheets and invoices, and a progress report. Your monitoring officer reviews the claim and, once it's approved, Innovate UK pays the grant share of the eligible costs. Accurate forecasts and complete evidence are the main ways to avoid delays.
Key facts
- Claims are usually quarterly, in arrears
- Each claim: costs by category, evidence, progress report
- Reviewed by your monitoring officer
- An independent accountant's report may be required
- A final report is due after the project ends
Before your first claim
- Read your offer letter: it sets your eligible costs, grant rate, claim schedule and reporting rules.
- Complete project set-up with your monitoring officer.
- Set up timesheets and cost codes so every eligible cost can be traced.
Step by step
- Forecast. Submit your spend forecast for the quarter.
- Record. Track time and costs against the project as you go.
- Claim. After the quarter ends, submit actual costs by category with evidence.
- Report. Submit the quarterly progress report, explaining any variances from forecast.
- Approval and payment. Your monitoring officer reviews the claim; once approved, payment follows.
Common reasons for delays
- Missing timesheets or invoices
- Costs outside the eligible categories in the offer letter
- Large unexplained variances against forecast
- Late progress reports
- An outstanding independent accountant's report, where required
At the end of the project
Submit the final claim and final report, usually within a set period after the project ends. Any retained part of the grant is paid once the final report is approved.
Related: Grants Advance →
Related questions
What is an independent accountant's report?
A report from an external accountant confirming your claimed costs. Innovate UK requires one in some circumstances, typically depending on the size of your project costs. Check your offer letter.
Can I change my budget during the project?
Usually yes, with your monitoring officer's agreement.