Overview
Nuffield Foundation Main Grants support research intended to improve lives in the UK, with awards of up to £500,000.
About the Fund
The Research, Development and Analysis Fund prioritises evidence addressing social and economic challenges. Projects normally run for six months to three years.
Benefits and Scope
Research can address fairness and prosperity, inclusion, technology’s societal effects, climate-policy impacts or trustworthy institutions. Most awards are below £300,000; the headline maximum is not a standard payment.
Eligibility
Applicants normally require employment or a formal affiliation with a UK host organisation throughout the project. Overseas hosts are considered only exceptionally where no UK host is feasible and UK impact is clearly demonstrated.
This is not funding for personal education fees or an unaffiliated individual’s project.
Application Process
Read the applicant guide, check eligibility and submit an online outline. Shortlisted teams are invited to submit a full proposal.
Required Information
Prepare a clear research question, methods, team credentials, realistic budget and route to impact, following the official form.
Deadline
The next published outline deadline is April 2027. The exact day has not yet been announced. Applications can currently be submitted.
Summary Table
| Maximum | £500,000 under the standard Main Grants route |
|---|---|
| Focus | UK research impact |
| Process | Outline, then invited full application |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a scholarship? No. It funds institutional research projects.
Conclusion
Use the preparation period to test your proposal’s fit with the fund’s priorities.
Read the official Nuffield funding call
Keywords: Nuffield Foundation Main Grants, UK research funding.
