ESRC Connect Awards (Pilot)
Offers exploratory funding pathways for high-risk social science ideas that build foundations for larger future projects.
Connect Awards fund novel, exploratory, and high-risk ideas that build foundations for future social science research. Activities can include networking, seminars, workshops, knowledge exchange, and initial data collection. Primary focus must be social sciences; interdisciplinary partnerships are encouraged. The total pilot fund is £3,000,000, with awards between £50,000 and £150,000 at 80% FEC. Projects must end by 31 March 2027. Applications are submitted via the UKRI Funding Service and assessed via distributed peer review — applicants also review peer applications. International researchers may apply as project co-lead (international).
Each grant below is a distinct funding opportunity with its own eligibility, scope, and deliverables.