The Big Retrofit Challenge is Back!

Applications are open for Futurebuild 2026

The NHDG is teaming up with Futurebuild and Innovate UK to host the second edition of the Big Retrofit Challenge. This initiative invites innovators from across the built environment to submit their solutions to some of the most pressing challenges in the retrofit sector. Up to six organisations will be shortlisted as winners and invited to present their innovations at Futurebuild 2026 (3-5 March 2026, ExCel London) as part of the National Retrofit Conference and Expo.

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The six shortlisted winners will have the opportunity to:

Pitch

Present their innovation on stage during a scheduled session at the National Retrofit Conference.

Showcase

Exhibit their solutions to NHDG members on the NHDG Pavilion at Futurebuild.

Engage

Connect with NHDG members following Futurebuild, with the potential for their solutions to be trialled or piloted in real world scenarios.

Amplify

Benefit from post-event visibility through video interviews, press releases, and thought-leadership articles.

Highly Commended Applications

We’re strengthening our support to Big Retrofit Challenge applicants by widening the number of innovators who will be showcased, helping more promising solutions gain visibility and play a role in shaping the future of home decarbonisation.

Up to the top 10 applications may be considered highly commended.

Highly commended applications will be showcased on the NHDG website and through the NHDG LinkedIn page to highlight their submission.

Please note small print: This recognition is not an endorsement of products or technologies by the NHDG.

What kind of innovations can be submitted?

Innovations can be products, services, improved systems or other solutions (including those enabling behavioural changes in building use) that deliver health and decarbonisation benefits to consumers, householders, and occupiers. Eligible solutions can apply to:

Existing homes

Existing non-residential properties

New buildings, provided the solution is also applicable to retrofit

Who can apply?

Applicants must be UK-registered businesses with a maximum annual turnover of up to £15 million. We are seeking new and innovative companies, so some priority will be given to less established organisations.

Applicants will be asked about the level of resident engagement undertaken when developing their innovation.

Organisations must present a product, service, system improvement, or other solution aimed at home decarbonisation and health improvement.

Compliance with PAS2035 or the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) is not required to be shortlisted, though applicants should consider how their solution could align with these standards in the future.

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Deadline: Monday 24 November 2025 at 11:00 GMT

To apply to the Big Retrofit Challenge, please submit an application. Please ensure that you submit your application in good time as extensions will not be accepted.

This competition is about creating a platform for innovation. Without innovation we will not reach net zero. So, we want to hear from you to understand the groundbreaking solutions you have which support the journey to net zero and home decarbonisation.

Download application help pack