Futurebuild has launched the second Big Retrofit Challenge, working with the National Home Decarbonisation Group (NHDG) and Innovate UK.
The event’s aim is to find new products and services to help decarbonise homes and non-residential properties, support occupant health and move towards net zero-carbon.
Up to six organisations will be shortlisted to present their ideas at the National Retrofit Conference 2026, which takes place at Excel London from 3rd to 5th March 2026.
Shortlisted entrants can also display their work in the NHDG Pavilion and meet NHDG members.
There may be opportunities for their ideas to be tested in real retrofit projects.
The 2026 competition has updated its brief and now includes a new category for digital and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions.
Applicants must be UK-registered businesses with a turnover of up to £15m, with preference going to less established groups.
Applicants do not need to meet publicly available specification 2035 (PAS 2035) or microgeneration certification scheme (MCS) standards to be shortlisted, but aligning with recognised standards will be encouraged.
Resident engagement will also be considered as part of the assessment.
Entries are open to private, public and third sector organisations, and collaborations, such as those between product manufacturers and local authorities, are welcome.
Martin Hurn, event director at Futurebuild, said: “The National Retrofit Conference is the UK’s leading platform for housing and local government retrofit.
“The Big Retrofit Challenge is about creating a national stage where new ideas are tested, partnerships are forged and innovators can move from concept to delivery.
“We want this year’s challenge to showcase the very best thinking and provide a launchpad for solutions that will make a lasting difference.”
Laura Marks, head of the NHDG Innovation Working Group, said: “Last year’s challenge showed how powerful Futurebuild can be in driving collaboration.
“We have seen finalists progress from pitching to working directly with housing providers, shaping specifications and piloting solutions.
“For 2026, we want to go even further by inviting digital and AI innovations alongside technical approaches, ensuring we capture the full range of creativity and expertise needed to meet the UK’s retrofit ambitions.”
