April 25, 2019, by Rob Ounsworth

Public engagement grants scheme is launched

The University’s Institute for Policy and Engagement is pleased to announce the launch of the Public Engagement Small Grants Scheme. The scheme will run in the 2019-20 financial year to support academics and researchers from across the University to engage public groups with their research with the goal of generating mutual benefit.

What funding is available? 

A limited number of grants are available to support a specific initiative or set of initiatives which engage public audiences with research projects or themes. The amount of funding awarded will typically be in the region of £2000 – £3000, although applications for up to £5000 will be considered for exceptional projects. This funding is available to academic and research staff across all faculties and schools on the UK campuses.

What activities will the fund support? 

Public engagement can take many forms – activities might include citizen science projects, collaborations with local community organisations, public-facing events, developing materials and digital engagement projects. We will be looking for applications that can demonstrate how the activity will benefit both the research and the public. The fund will not support activities already funded through existing research awards, policy impact activities, or generic administrative support. Applications are particularly encouraged that can demonstrate societal benefits in and around Nottingham.

The institute has also opened a new round of the Policy Impact Small Grants Scheme, which will run on the same timeline as the Public Engagement Small Grants Scheme. For more information on the Policy Impact fund, email Chris Sims. If you have an idea for a project and are not sure which fund would be the best fit, get in touch.

While the institute welcomes applications from staff whose work is likely to form part of a REF impact case study, this is by no means a requirement for support from the small grants scheme. If you have any doubts as to whether what you have in mind is suitable, please email the team.

Payments for all activities under the scheme must be made by the end of July 2020.

How do I apply? 

Please complete the application form available on Workspace and return it by 31 May 2019.

When will I know if I have been successful? 

A panel chaired by the Institute Director Stephen Meek will evaluate applications based on their likelihood of benefitting both the public and the University of Nottingham. The panel will respond by the end of June 2019.

What other requirements are there? 

Successful applicants will be required to fill out an evaluation form, outlining the activity undertaken and the outputs/outcomes. Every effort will be made to minimise the administration requirements.

What support can I access? 

The institute is very happy to discuss ideas for how public engagement might be achieved and to help you shape your proposal. If you’d like some support in developing your ideas, email the institute.

For more information, contact the institute or email Rachael Pearson, Head of Public Engagement.

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