RFAs: Essential Employment Skills Fund (United Kingdom)

The Nuffield Foundation’s Essential Employment Skills Fund offers grants of up to £500,000 to support research on developing essential employment skills among young people in the UK who face significant barriers to employment. The goal is to evaluate and enhance programs that help young individuals secure good jobs. Applications are open until 10 December 2026. The Essential Employment Skills Fund aims to address the challenges young people from disadvantaged backgrounds face in accessing the workforce. By fostering robust evidence on effective skills development approaches, the fund seeks to integrate these skills across education and youth support systems, ultimately enhancing job access for young adults. The fund provides up to £500,000 per project to support the evaluation and delivery of programs that focus on essential employment skills. Funding may also cover program delivery costs if not met by other sources. Projects are encouraged to form partnerships with stakeholders such as employers, educators, and local authorities to sustain youth employment initiatives. Programs should focus on developing essential employment skills such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. Activities may include: The fund addresses youth unemployment and economic inactivity in the UK by supporting programs that help young people develop in-demand skills. By reducing inequalities in skills development, the fund aims to improve employment outcomes and contribute to a fairer society. What is the maximum funding amount available per project? The maximum funding available per project is up to £500,000. Who can apply for this funding? UK-based evaluators and program delivery organizations with expertise in skills development and evaluation. What age group does the fund target? The fund targets young people aged 16-24 facing significant barriers to employment. What activities are eligible for funding? Activities focusing on essential skills development, such as vocational training and mentoring, are eligible. When is the application deadline? The application deadline is 10 December 2026. Eligible organizations should review the official guidelines provided by the Nuffield Foundation and submit their applications by the deadline. Ensure all parts of the application align with the fund’s objectives and eligibility criteria for successful consideration.