Economic research on the returns to R&D investment
UK Research and Innovation funds research to rigorously measure and understand the economic and social returns of R&D investment, supporting evidence-based policy and investment decisions.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: November 19, 2026 (Closing date)
Funding Amounts: Up to £308,000 (80% FEC) per project for up to 24 months; total fund £2,460,000.
Summary: Supports rigorous research to improve measurement and understanding of the economic and social returns on R&D investment for evidence-based policy and investment decisions.
Key Information: Project lead must be at a UKRI-eligible UK research organisation; international collaboration encouraged.
Description
This funding opportunity, offered by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) through the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), supports innovative empirical research to advance the measurement and understanding of the economic and social returns generated by research and development (R&D) activities. The program aims to refine existing estimates of R&D returns, address evidence gaps, and inform both public and private investment decisions. Projects may deploy quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods to analyze spillover effects, welfare implications, and the influence of policy on R&D productivity. Grant holders will join an international cohort, participate in networking events, and contribute to open research platforms that promote replication and transparency.
