Guidance

Support for neurodivergent applicants

UKDI support service for neurodivergent people from sole traders and small or medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)

We offer a support service for neurodivergent people from sole traders and small or medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) who are currently applying through our submissions service with a suitable idea.

What support is available?

You can receive up to 6 hours of one-to-one coaching and training with a professional facilitator. This includes:

  • time management and planning support
  • stress management and organisation techniques
  • concentration and focus techniques

Who can use this service?

This service is for neurodivergent people who:

  • are currently applying from a sole trader business or an SME
  • would benefit from additional support with the application process
  • do not already have access to similar support elsewhere
  • have a viable idea that is desirable

This is a pilot service with limited places available.

How do I apply?

  1. Contact your local Innovation Partner to discuss the desirability of your idea and your interest in this service
  2. Once your idea has been deemed desirable, a short referral form will need to be completed with your name and contact details. We will hold this information in accordance with the MOD Privacy Policy and MOD Retention Policy.
  3. You will then be contacted within 2 working days to arrange a needs assessment

Your needs assessment will be a conversation with a professional to understand how we can best support you – you can choose whether this is by phone or video call 

Why have we created this service?

We want everyone to be able to access our submissions service. This support is designed to remove barriers so that neurodivergent applicants are not disadvantaged.

Questions?

Contact your local Innovation Partner via the get in touch with UKDI page.

Updates to this page

Published 29 January 2026

Sign up for emails or print this page