In this episode of Bright Spark we look back at the Strategic Innovation Fund's successes across 2025 and give a preview of what’s in store for 2026.

Across 2025 the SIF continued to fund transformational innovation projects. We received 391 applications, 70% of these were funded, with £25.7 million pounds of funding approved for 40 innovation projects.

In 2026 we are looking forward to the start of the RIIO 3 price control for NESO, gas networks and electricity transmission. Find out how the SIF team has been working with our Ofgem colleagues to influence change, and what’s in store from the SIF as we move into this new phase.

SIF programme director Jodie Giles is joined for this one by Head of Delivery Kate Jones, Head of Innovation Laura Glover and Head of Commercial Paul Padaruth.

1. Find out more about the SIF on our SIF programme page on the Business Connect website
2. You can also find our new 2025 Annual Report and the latest version of our Project Directory on the SIF programme page
3. Sign up to the SIF newsletter for regular updates SIF news and events
4. SIF Round 5 EoI form - share your ideas and expertise with the SIF team
5. Predict for resilience podcast

Bright Spark is a Bespoken Media production