UK businesses can win six months free access to research and technology facilities to develop their ideas.
Offered by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), it is open to firms "which are developing products geared towards making a big impact in the environment, healthcare or energy sectors", said STFC.
The facilities are STFC's Innovations Technology Access Centre (I-TAC) on the Daresbury Science and Innovation Campus in Cheshire.
1st prize in each sector:
Six months access to your own dedicated I-TAC laboratory
2nd prize in each sector:
Two prizes of two months access to your own dedicated I-TAC laboratory
Runners up prize across all sectors:
Four prizes of one month laboratory access.
"Companies can benefit massively from access to I-TAC's world-class facilities. Each prize-winner will be supported by STFC staff to ensure that they get the most out of their time here," said I-TAC manager Dr Martin Morlidge.
More details about the competition are available.
"Organisations entering simply need to show that they are working in the key areas of energy, healthcare or environment and how they would benefit from access to lab space and equipment," said STFC. "To help them prepare their application, companies are strongly advised to visit I-TAC to see the facilities and equipment that are available."
The closing date for entries is 30 November and the winners will be announced on 10 December 2010. All awards will start early in 2011.