Public Engagement Reaction Awards - Quick-Response Funding for Timely Projects

The Public Engagement Reaction Awards offer a unique opportunity for UK-based organizations to secure quick-response funds of up to £10,000. These grants are designed to support timely and impactful projects in the realms of science, technology, and public engagement, particularly those associated with the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC). Ideal for a broad spectrum of applicants, including academic researchers, schools, community groups, and more, these awards are focused on fostering projects that respond to recent discoveries, societal impacts, and changes in national curricula or government policies related to STFC science and technology.

Key Information:

• Grant Value: Up to £10,000, covering 100% of the project cost under the Full Economic Cost (FEC) framework.
• Sector: Science, Technology, and Public Engagement.
• Project Duration: Limited to a six-month period
• Application Period: From 18 July 2023, 12:01 am to 31 December 2024, 4:00 pm

Primary Objectives:

• Addressing recent or significant scientific discoveries
• Raising awareness of the societal, cultural, or economic impacts of science and technology
• Adapting to changes in national education curricula or governmental policies related to STFC fields
• Target Audience: Projects are encouraged to focus on engaging children aged 8-14, particularly in socio-economically disadvantaged areas, aligning with the STFC Wonder initiative.
• Funding Conditions: The scheme does not adhere to the full economic cost (FEC) model. Up to £10,000 is offered, covering 100% of project costs.

Application Essentials:

• Inclusion of a researcher active in an STFC-funded area.
• Financial accountability requirements, including the production of annual financial reports audited or prepared by a qualified accountant from a recognized body.
• Open to new project proposals or revised submissions of previous applications.
• Ineligible Activities: The grant does not cover primary science communication efforts, unplanned conference participation, or publication expenses.
• Application Process: Applications must be submitted via the Joint Electronic Submission (Je-S) system.
• Supporting Documents: Applicants need to provide a comprehensive case for support, detailed engagement activity plans, an evaluation strategy, dissemination plans, and a justification for the resources requested.

Special Considerations:

• Emphasis on making responsible ecological choices in project execution.
• No capital budget, but requests for equipment under £10,000 can be made.
• Encouragement of partnerships with project partners for additional support and resources.
• Applications involving STFC as a project partner are treated the same as other applications in the review process.
• Detailed guidelines for project partner letters of support.
• Exclusions: The scheme does not support projects with primary audiences outside the UK, infrastructural costs, or retrospective funding.

This funding opportunity provides a platform for innovative, timely projects that can make a significant impact in the realms of science and technology public engagement. Engage in the conversation to explore how this grant can be effectively utilised for creating meaningful experiences and fostering a deeper understanding of science and technology among diverse audiences.