NAPIC Conference 2026 - abstract call / ICURe funded training launched

NAPIC 2026 is open for Abstract submuissions to the October conference and ICURe Discovery funded training launches for PhD students, postdocs, research technical professionals.

The National Alternative Proteins Innovation Centre (NAPIC) 2026 conference will be held on 14th – 15th October 2026 at the Technology and Innovation Centre (TIC), University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, with a pre-conference drinks reception taking place on 13th October.

The University of Leeds is the lead institution for NAPIC, which rotates between NAPIC co-centres each year. This year, it is being hosted at the University of Strathclyde, in partnership with the NAPIC co-centre, the James Hutton Institute.

The conference aims to convene a diverse group of stakeholders— including industry leaders, innovators, researchers, investors, and policymakers— to explore and advance the latest developments in alternative protein innovation.

Napic 2026 conference card

The two-day programme will feature keynote speakers, fireside chats, interactive workshops, networking opportunities, poster presentations, and discussions spanning innovation, scale-up, regulation, consumer acceptance, nutrition, and commercialisation.

Abstract submissions now open

We welcome poster submissions from researchers across academia and industry, including negative and unexpected results that help advance the field. Register and submit your abstract here: https://napic.ac.uk/napic-conference-2026/
If you have any questions on the event, please contact: events@napic.ac.uk

ICURe Discover training programme

This is a funded opportunity open to PhD students, postdocs, research technical professionals, fellows and group leaders at UK universities, BBSRC-funded institutes and approved public sector research enterprises.

If you have research or an idea with commercial potential, NAPIC ICURe Discover is a free, sector-specific market discovery programme helping participants explore how research can translate into real-world impact.

Open to both NAPIC and non-NAPIC applicants, the programme offers:

• 8-week part-time, hybrid programme
• Up to £2,500 market discovery support
• Opportunity to test ideas with customers, partners and industry stakeholders
• Access to the wider Innovate UK ICURe pathway.

Online information session

If you are interested in learning more please join our online information session on Tuesday 2nd June 2026 at 12:00pm–1:00pm, to hear from the ICURe team, NAPIC, The Helix Way and programme alumni, who will share their experiences and answer questions.