Innovate UK (Innovation Exchange)

iX Challenge: Reducing Blood-Cell Loss and Measurement Variability in Field-Deployable Microfluidic Diagnostic Cartridges

About this grant

Innovate UK Innovation Exchange (iX) challenge set by Beyond Blood Diagnostics, a NATO DIANA company developing portable blood analysis. It wants ways to stop blood cells sticking to and fouling its disposable microfluidic cartridge and to reduce measurement errors from cell position and orientation, targeting a white cell differential with under 3% variation in field conditions. Applicants submit a short solution proposal (idea summary, technology readiness and intellectual property) by 11am on 6 November 2026. Shortlisted applicants pitch to the challenge holder, and the selected solution provider can apply for up to £60,000 of Innovate UK grant funding for a three-month project starting by 1 March 2027 and finishing by 31 May 2027. Successful applicants also get Innovate UK Business Connect and technical support.