To re-submit or not to re-submit, that is the question.
After last week’s Innovate UK SMART results left many are grappling with deciphering feedback on unsuccessful applications today. I get it, it’s really disheartening. It’s even more frustrating when assessors seem to disagree, misinterpret parts of the application, or draw flawed conclusions from limited understanding. It’s a process that can leave you confused, frustrated, and wondering where it went wrong.
Deciding what to do next can feel overwhelming. With years of experience in this space, I know it’s never straightforward so I’ve pulled together some insights to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
1️⃣Request your scores from Innovate UK
Use FOI/GDPR frameworks to see how assessors individually (not mean averaged) scored your application and request any additional notes. You can email support here (Template in the guide).
2️⃣ Don’t waste time appealing
Unless there’s valid discrimination or procedural failure – interpretation of the technical detail of an application is not valid grounds.
3️⃣ Innovate UK SMART Assessment is extremely subjective
Scores can vary by ±5 points depending on the reviewers assigned, and assessment frameworks are very loosely defined (again more detail in the guide)
4️⃣Spot trends
Feedback trends often link early-question weaknesses to later scores, so if you are trying to improve the application overall, look for the points where scoring shifts.
5️⃣Innovation matters, but the right kind
Not all innovation aligns with SMART’s priorities, that doesn’t mean it is not innovative, or a great idea.
6️⃣Have a cut-off
As a rule of thumb if your score is above 70, there’s likely potential to improve and resubmit. Below 70, the issues might be more fundamental, often around innovation.
7️⃣Follow the data on SMART Results
Applications are not assessed in a vacuum – look at the detailed breakdown from FOI requests of individual sectors and trends.
8️⃣ There’s gold in the Assessor feedback.
Even when it stings, at least three industry experts have just provided their objective and impartial insights on your idea. This feedback is an invaluable resource that you can leverage to refine your concept, strengthen your approach, and enhance your overall strategy.
💡 Many SMART applicants rely on an AI templating service that’s infamous for leaving applicants in the dark after a rejection.
To help bridge that gap, I’ve created a 📝 detailed guide that walks you through the process of analysing your feedback, deciding whether to resubmit, and improving your chances.Whether you’ve applied to SMART, know someone who has, or simply want to understand the nuances of grant applications better, this guide will give you actionable insights.
