Public Engagement Spark Awards 2026A
The Public Engagement Spark Awards 2026A fund projects that engage UK audiences with STFC-funded science, including astronomy and physics, through innovative public engagement activities.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: August 25, 2026 (Full application submission deadline)
Funding Amounts: £5,000–£20,000 per project | Up to 36 months duration | £100,000 total fund
Summary: Supports high-quality public engagement projects that connect UK audiences with STFC-funded science, technology, and research.
Key Information: Application must include a subject-matter expert in the STFC remit; organisations must be UK-based and produce certified annual accounts.
Description
The Public Engagement Spark Awards 2026A, funded by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) under UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), aim to support innovative public engagement activities that introduce and connect diverse UK audiences to science, technology, and research within the STFC remit. Projects should inspire, involve, and engage new or underserved audiences, co-produce resources or activities, and highlight the value and achievements of STFC-supported science. Proposals must have strong, evidenced links to STFC-funded areas—such as astronomy, particle physics, nuclear physics, and related disciplines—and must include a subject-matter expert to ensure scientific accuracy and relevance. Projects should align with the STFC Public Engagement Strategy and are encouraged to use either novel or established engagement methods.
