Getting R&D tax relief right in 2026: 10 things research-led companies should know
Event overview:
R&D tax relief continues to provide valuable support to companies investing in scientific and technological advancement, but the merged scheme and ERIS rewrote the rules for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 April 2024. With increased reporting requirements and closer HMRC scrutiny of claims under the new regime, research-led companies need to understand both the opportunities and the risks.
In our November lunch and learn, Matthew Jones, Chartered Accountant, Chartered Tax Adviser and Managing Director of specialist R&D tax relief firm LimestoneGrey, will cover the 10 key things research-led companies need to know about R&D tax relief in 2026. Designed with innovative and research-intensive businesses in mind, Matthew will cover among other topics: what qualifies as R&D, the current R&D tax-relief schemes, how university and investor shareholdings affect your entitlement, and the administrative requirements that can invalidate an otherwise valid R&D claim.
The session will also look at the most common misconceptions and pitfalls seen in practice, particularly as R&D projects become more collaborative, international and technically complex, and as companies grow from university lab to spinout and beyond. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of how the current R&D tax relief regime applies to their business, the practical steps they can take to strengthen their claims and the questions they should be asking before their next claim is submitted.
The session will include an opportunity to network with fellow attendees; hot and cold refreshments, and a light buffet lunch will be provided.
Who should attend?
This seminar is aimed at founders, directors, finance professionals and technical leaders within research-led businesses, including startups, university spinouts, scaleups and established companies undertaking R&D.
Whether you are considering R&D tax relief for the first time, are already making claims or simply want to understand how recent changes could affect your business, the session will provide practical insights to help you approach R&D tax relief with greater confidence.
Registration is essential. The event is primarily for members of the Begbroke community, but space permitting, we would also love to welcome attendees from local science-led spinouts and startups. If you are based outside of Begbroke and would like to attend, in the first instance please email Enquiries with your name, organisation and role, and why this would be a useful event for you to attend.
