November 23, 2012 - The UK Government-sponsored Technology Strategy Board has earmarked £1.5 million in funding for new projects aimed at stimulating mobile commerce and countering the threat of theft and fraud.

Up to £1m is available for phase 1 of the competitive tender process and up to a further £500k may be available to further develop successful phase 1 projects.

Funding is open to single companies or organisations from the private, public and third sectors, including charities. Projects will last up to five months and successful applicants will attract a 100%-funded development contract of up to £50k.

Market support will be provided by the Technology Strategy Board and the Home Office, helping companies gain exposure to commercial organisations via the Forum for Innovation in Crime Prevention.

The competition opened on 19 November 2012, with networking events planned for London and Manchester in early December. The deadline for registration is noon on 9 January 2013 and the deadline for applications is at noon on 16 January 2013.