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ESRC React Awards (Pilot)

ESRC React Awards Pilot

Supports United Kingdom policy-relevant social science through rapid-response grants for urgent knowledge innovation.

OpenEconomic and Social Research CouncilUnited Kingdom
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About

The ESRC React Awards are a 2026 pilot programme providing rapid-turnaround research funding for time-critical social science evidence needs. Awards range from £50,000 to £100,000 with a total pilot pool of £1,500,000. Projects run for a maximum of six months and must start within one month of receiving funding confirmation. ESRC funds 80% of full economic cost. The pilot window runs from 7 April …

What this grant funds

Any aspect of ESRC remit where social sciences represent at least 51% of effort. Must address urgent policymaker or practitioner evidence needs.

Key facts
CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Rolling
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.8 Oct 2026
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.—
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.null–6 months
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.20%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.£1.5M
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Last verified: 24 Jul 2026Source: www.ukri.org