By Simon Hettrick.

We come across a lot of good ideas about research and software. In fact, events like our Collaborations Workshop are custom made to get researchers and developers together to generate these ideas. But what about turning ideas into a reality? Applying for academic funding is one possibility, but sometimes all you need is a start up fund to get things kick started. Such a solution is being offered by Digital Science - a technology company serving the needs of scientific research.

Digital Science runs the Catalysts grant programme, which is looking for the best and brightest innovators in scientific software to help them get their ideas off the ground. The programme awards a series of grants of up to a maximum of £15,000 each to outstanding individuals who want to bring an idea from concept to prototype. Along with funding, Digital Science also offer the opportunity to work with their team to refine, develop and promote the innovation. What's more, they do not claim any intellectual-property rights in the application or prevent you from working with other collaborators or investors.

If you are interested in the Catalysts grant programme, visit the Digital Science website for more information.