The UK government is launching a £20 million funding programme to support the development of medical technologies, digital tools, and medicines aimed at tackling drug and alcohol addiction. Delivered through Innovate UK, the grants will back innovations such as wearable devices, AI-enabled tools, mobile apps, and virtual reality solutions designed to improve treatment access, support recovery, and reduce harm.
Substance misuse remains a major public health challenge in the UK, contributing to approximately 15,000 deaths annually and costing England an estimated £47 billion each year. Health Minister Zubir Ahmed said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to exploring new technological approaches to supplement prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts already underway.
The funding will be distributed through two tracks under the Addiction Healthcare Goals programme. Late-stage projects demonstrating real-world effectiveness and readiness for regulatory approval can apply for awards of up to £10 million through the AHG Catalysing Innovation Awards. Earlier-stage innovations may receive up to £1.5 million to validate initial effectiveness and strengthen business development.
Successful applicants will receive regulatory guidance from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) to help accelerate approval and rollout. Science Minister Lord Vallance emphasized that the programme aims to move promising innovations quickly from concept to impact while supporting growth in the UK life sciences sector. Applications are open until 6 May 2026, with a briefing session scheduled for 19 February.
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