As we move through 2026, Liverpool is no longer just a city of culture and football; it has officially become a “Silicon Port.” With the recent shortlisting for the European Capital of Innovation 2026 and a fresh multi-million pound budget from the Combined Authority, the funding landscape for tech startups has never been more fertile.
However, “grant hunting” can feel like a full-time job. This guide breaks down the current 2026 opportunities specifically for tech and digital founders in Merseyside.
1. The Core Funding Hubs: Where to Start
In Liverpool, grants aren’t usually handed out directly by the Council front desk. Instead, they flow through specialized regional bodies.
- Growth Platform: This is your “front door.” They don’t always hold the money, but they are the central signposting service for every grant currently active in the City Region.
- Liverpool City Region Combined Authority (LCRCA): Led by Mayor Steve Rotheram, the CA manages the massive Integrated Settlement—a £1.5 billion fund for the next four years. In 2026, they have earmarked over £60 million specifically for business support and digital skills.
2. Specific Tech Grants Available in 2026
A. The LCRCA “AI for Good” Fund
New for 2026, this £1 million fund is specifically for startups utilizing Artificial Intelligence to solve social, environmental, or public service challenges.
- Best for: SaaS startups, HealthTech, and EdTech.
- Focus: Projects that align with the Mayor’s “AI Task Force” goals.
B. LYVA Labs: Clean Tech & Health Innovation
If your tech startup sits at the intersection of sustainability and healthcare, LYVA Labs is your best bet.
- The Fund: Pre-seed investments of up to £100,000.
- The Perk: Access to their incubator program and clinical trial networks within the Knowledge Quarter (KQ Liverpool).
C. LCR Capital Grant Fund
Delivered via the Growth Platform, this is for more established tech firms (usually B2B) looking to buy hardware or high-spec infrastructure.
- Amount: Minimum £10,000 to maximum £75,000.
- Requirement: You must provide 80% of the project cost; the grant covers the remaining 20%.
D. The King’s Trust: “Test My Business Idea”
Perfect for the youngest entrepreneurs in the Baltic Triangle (ages 18-30).
- Amount: Small grants up to £500 just to test a MVP (Minimum Viable Product).
- Long-term: Successful “testers” get fast-tracked to larger startup loans and mentoring.
3. The 2026 “Innovation Zone” Advantage
Liverpool is now home to a specialized Life Sciences Investment Zone. Startups located within this zone (stretching from the Knowledge Quarter to Speke) can often access:
- Business Rate Relief: Huge savings on office space in spots like Paddington Village.
- Capital Investment: Direct grants for R&D facilities specifically for digital and tech-led health solutions.
4. How to Win: The “Scouse Social Value” Test
In 2026, Liverpool grants have a unique requirement. Because the funding comes from a “Devolution Deal,” the city wants to see that your tech startup isn’t just making money—it’s helping the community.
To increase your chances of success, your application should mention:
- Local Employment: Are you hiring from local universities (LJMU/UoL)?
- Net Zero: How is your tech helping Liverpool reach its 2035 Net Zero goal?
- Real Living Wage: Committing to paying the Real Living Wage is often a prerequisite for CA-backed funding.
5. Summary Checklist for Applicants
| Step | Action Item |
| 1 | Register your interest with the Growth Platform website. |
| 2 | Prepare a 3-year financial forecast (Grants love data). |
| 3 | Ensure your business address is an L-postcode (Crucial for eligibility). |
| 4 | Book a “Grant Readiness” session at the Central Library BIPC. |