Aim of this survey

The aim of the UK Innovation Survey (UKIS) is to collect data from businesses about various aspects of their innovation-related activities. Using these data we can measure the level, types and trends in innovation.

What you need to know

UKIS data are a major source of evidence to inform government policy. They are used to promote innovation activities among businesses to boost economic growth. They are used widely across government and by the research community for understanding the innovation landscape. The data form part of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) wide Innovation Indicators. The OECD innovation compendium is used for international benchmarking and comparison purposes.

The UKIS is conducted on behalf of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and the Department for Business and Trade (DBT). Previous UKIS reports are available in the UK Innovation Survey Collection.

The survey is voluntary; but your co-operation in completing the questionnaire would be appreciated. To complete the survey, you will need the following information:

  • information about the business's innovation activities
  • expenditure on innovation investment (product and process)

All information you provide is strictly confidential. Read more information about privacy and data protection.

How we use your data

UKIS is used as the main data source for business innovation in the UK and helps the government develop, improve, and evaluate innovation policy. More details are available on the UK Innovation Survey Collection.

Survey information may also be provided to other government departments, approved organisations and approved researchers for statistical purposes only.

Survey information

Selection criteria: UK trading businesses registered for Value Added Tax (VAT) and/or Pay As You Earn (PAYE)

Population: 220,000

Sample: 32,000

Frequency: biennial

Dispatch date

18 April 2023

Return-by date

2 June 2023

Dispatch and return-by dates are a guide. They are subject to change due to national holidays and weekends.

Why you were selected

Your business has been selected from a directory of businesses in the UK that are registered for VAT and/or PAYE or with Companies House. Your response ensures we represent your industry.

How to complete this survey

Your letter explains how to submit your data using our online collection system. Please use your unique enrolment code to report your information.

Complete this survey online

If you need help

You can call us on 0300 1234 931. Please enter the three-digit survey ID 144.

From outside the UK: +441633 810495.

If you would like to speak to someone in Welsh: 0300 1234 921.

Er mwyn gwneud cais am ffurflen Gymraeg: 0300 1234 921.