ESRC applicant-led Grow Awards in the United Kingdom

The Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) offers the Applicant-Led Grow Awards to support researchers in the UK in enhancing their skills, experience, and confidence to advance their careers in social science. This opportunity is open continuously without a closing date. Researchers can apply for funding ranging from £100,000 to £500,000. Opportunity at a Glance

- Provider: Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)

- Funding Type: Grant

- Award Range: £100,000 to £500,000

- Eligible Applicants: UK-based researchers at eligible research organizations

- Eligible Countries: United Kingdom

- Project Duration: 18 to 60 months

- Opening Date: 5 November 2026, 9:00 AM UK time

- Deadline: Open – no closing date

About the Opportunity

The Grow Awards aim to boost the UK’s social science research base by supporting individual researchers at critical career stages. The awards facilitate the development of new capabilities or shifts in career direction, thereby enhancing the long-term capacity, adaptability, and resilience of social science research. Funding and Benefits

- Financial Support: Up to 80% of the full economic cost (FEC) of projects, with total costs between £100,000 and £500,000.

- Project Activities: Projects can include research, data analysis, collaboration, mentoring, placements, and skills development tailored to the applicant’s goals. Who Is Eligible?

- Applicant Type: Researchers at any career stage, based at UK research organizations eligible for ESRC funding.

- Team Composition: International and UK-based partners can be included as co-leads or project partners.

- Interdisciplinary Proposals: Encouraged, with over 50% of the research focus within the social sciences.

Eligible Activities or Priority Areas

- Research Projects: Basic or applied research that aligns with career development objectives.

- Capability Development: Methodological or technical skills advancement.

- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Transfer of insights across disciplines.

- Placements and Secondments: Immersive experiences in academic and non-academic settings.

- Mentoring and Leadership: Tailored development activities.

Why This Opportunity Matters The Grow Awards are essential for fostering a competitive social science research environment in the UK. By supporting individual career development, these awards contribute to building a dynamic and flexible research community capable of addressing complex societal challenges. How to Apply

- Verify Eligibility: Confirm that your organization is eligible for ESRC funding.

- Prepare Proposal: Develop a detailed plan for the project, including objectives, activities, and potential impact.

- Submit Application: Follow the guidelines on the ESRC website for application submission.

Application Tips or Common Mistakes

- Tailor Proposals: Ensure your development plan aligns with personal and career goals.

- Clarify Impact: Articulate how the project will enhance your career and benefit the broader research community.

- Avoid Resubmissions: Do not resubmit uninvited proposals previously submitted to UKRI.

Frequently Asked Questions Who can apply for the Grow Awards? Researchers at any career stage based in the UK at eligible institutions. What is the funding range for Grow Awards? £100,000 to £500,000, covering up to 80% of the project’s full economic cost. What activities are supported by this funding? Various activities, including research, placements, and skills development, tailored to support career advancement. Is there a deadline for applications? No, applications are open continuously without a specific closing date. Can international researchers participate? Yes, as project co-leads or partners, provided they meet the eligibility requirements. Next Steps Eligible researchers interested in advancing their careers through the Grow Awards should review the official guidelines and prepare their applications. Visit the ESRC website for detailed instructions and support.