Funding

Apply for funding to connect with other researchers to scope, seed and grow emerging research fields and new areas of inquiry. You must be based at a UK organisation eligible for ESRC funding.

• Opening date: 7 April 2026, 9:00am
• Closing date: 10 June 2026, 4:00pm

Summary

Apply for funding to connect with other researchers to scope, seed and grow emerging research fields and new areas of inquiry.

This pilot funding opportunity will support researchers to collaborate on novel, exploratory and high-risk ideas, building the foundations for future research and innovation.

Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) will fund 80% of the project’s full economic cost (FEC). Awards can last up to six months. Projects must have finished by 31 March 2027.

Eligibility

This funding opportunity is open to organisations with standard eligibility. Check if your organisation is eligible.

Who is eligible to apply

This funding opportunity will be open to researchers based in UK research organisations, UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) institutes, NHS bodies, independent research organisations, public sector research establishments and Catapult centres. We encourage:

• applications from diverse groups of researchers
• applications from those who have not previously held ESRC grants
• applications from individuals at any career stage, subject to ESRC eligibility

Applications must have a project lead from the social science disciplines within ESRC’s remit.

Apply here