Funding Call ZeDTech Funding for Feasibility Research on Dementia Support Technologies
ZeDTech has launched a new funding for feasibility research projects to develop zero-burden, sustainable technologies that support independent living with dementia, funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and the Alzheimer’s Society.
Funding guidelines & application form.
Funding call closes on 23 March 2026
ZeDTech is led by Professor David Sharp and Professor Tim Constandinou at Imperial College London, in collaboration with Newcastle University, University of Leeds, University of Exeter, University of Surrey, and the National Physical Laboratory.
Our mission is to accelerate the development of zero-burden, sustainable technologies that support independent living with dementia. We connect people and organisations across the UK to share knowledge, co-produce meaningful solutions, and test innovations in real-world settings. At the heart of ZeDTech is a commitment to technologies that fit seamlessly into everyday life – reducing disruption while enhancing care, communication, and wellbeing.
What we’re looking for:
- Zero-burden, sustainable tech solutions for: mobility, everyday living, communication, health monitoring, carer support
- Technologies that support independent living for people with dementia
- Projects co-developed with people with lived experience
- Cross-disciplinary proposals led by academic researchers can be in collaboration with industry, health & social care professionals and other partners
- Feasibility studies focusing on early-stage development, proof-of-concept, user testing, and/or implementation considerations
- Aim to prepare a larger project application to EPSRC or NIHR
Funding:
- £50,000 – £100,000 per feasibility project
- Awarded at 80% FEC
- 12–24 months projects – starting from June 2026
- Researcher Led
- Applicants need to meet EPSRC & UKRI eligibility criteria
ZeDTech Launch Conference:
ZeDTech Summit – launching a new UK dementia technology network
Date: 9 March 2026, 9.30am – 6.30pm
This event will mark the official launch of the ZeDTech Network and bring together a vibrant, interdisciplinary community from across the UK – including researchers, tech developers, clinicians, industry partners, third sector organisations, carers, and people with lived experience of dementia.
ZeDTech is led by Professor David Sharp and Professor Tim Constandinou at Imperial College London, in collaboration with Newcastle University, University of Leeds, University of Exeter, University of Surrey, and the National Physical Laboratory.
Our mission is to accelerate the development of zero-burden, sustainable technologies that support independent living with dementia. We connect people and organisations across the UK to share knowledge, co-produce meaningful solutions, and test innovations in real-world settings. At the heart of ZeDTech is a commitment to technologies that fit seamlessly into everyday life – reducing disruption while enhancing care, communication, and wellbeing.
ZeDTech is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and the Alzheimer’s Society.
The Summit will feature dynamic sessions exploring:
- The current landscape of technology in dementia care
- Key gaps and opportunities for future research
- Funding pathways for dementia-focused technologies
- Public and professional involvement
- Industry and start-up perspectives on technology development
