Pre-announcement: NEW ESRC calls

Please see below details of two new calls from ESRC which will open in April 2026.  Once further details are released on the application process we will update further but at this stage we are encouraging potential applicants to read the guidance on the call webpages.

Funding to generate time-critical research to support policymakers and practitioner delivering frontline services in the UK.  You must have a confirmed partnership with at least one public sector organisation that can action your outputs within six months.

Awards can last up to six months and must start within a month of funding confirmation.  Awards range from £50,000 – £100,000.

This funding opportunity will open in April 2026.

Funding to connect with other researchers to scope, seed and grow emerging research fields and new area of inquiry.

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

ESRC will be looking for applications that bring researchers together, forming new collaborations across disciplines, or bringing together different fields of research to develop high-risk, exploratory or unconventional research ideas and approaches

Awards can last up to six months and awards range from £50,000 – £150,000.

This funding opportunity will open in April 2026 and projects will be expected to start on 1 October 2026.