Singapore and UK sign MOU to strengthen collaboration in enterprise co-innovation, joint R&D

SINGAPORE and the UK have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen collaboration in co-innovation and joint research and development (R&D), in order to enhance enterprise competitiveness and facilitate go-to-market partnerships in emerging technologies.

In a press statement on Dec 9, Enterprise Singapore (ESG) and Innovate UK, the UK's innovation agency, said that this is the first bilateral MOU signed between the 2 agencies. It is based on "strong mutual interest in co-innovation between Singapore and UK companies".

Under the MOU, ESG and Innovate UK will launch the Singapore-UK Bilateral Co-Innovation Programme (CIP) to enable more opportunities and support for Singapore and UK enterprises. Enterprises will be able to tap technological expertise and market knowledge, as well as receive funding.

Eligible innovation projects between Singapore and UK enterprises may be in areas such as advanced manufacturing and materials, agri-food technology, mobility and transport, health and life sciences, and cybersecurity.

"This MOU builds on our existing strong partnership with Innovate UK. With this co-innovation programme, Singapore and UK companies will get greater access to resources to facilitate and fund more joint innovation and R&D partnerships," said ESG assistant chief executive officer Tan Soon Kim.

Partnerships between the 2 countries have grown significantly over the past 2 years.

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In 2020, UK-Singapore joint applications made up half the total number of applications for the Singapore innovation grant call as part of Eureka Globalstars, an initiative organised by several enterprise networks across the Eureka network.

One such partnership was between Singapore-based spacetech startup Aliena, UK's Imperial College and UK-based aerospace company URA Thrusters, who together developed a technology that uses water electrolysis for electric propulsion systems.

Since 2018, ESG has supported more than 90 innovation projects by Singapore companies with partners from around the world, via its international co-innovation programmes.

The first call for proposals for CIP will be launched in early 2022, with more details to be released in due course.

READ MORE:

• Singapore and UK sign MOUs on digital trade and identities as well as cybersecurity

• Singapore a 'natural partner' for the UK in digital economy push