Expedition grants
RGS grants fund ambitious overseas expeditions and fieldwork that advance geographical knowledge through scientific, humanitarian, and cultural research, with multiple schemes for a range of disciplines and expedition types.
Funder: Royal Geographical Society
Due Dates: January 8, 2027: RGS Explore Grants | January 8, 2027: Gino Watkins Fund Awards | January 8, 2027: Ran and Ginny Fiennes Award | January 8, 2027: Neville Shulman Challenge Award
Funding Amounts: RGS Explore Grants: £500–£5,000 | Gino Watkins Fund: up to £4,000 | Ran and Ginny Fiennes Award: £2,000–£5,000 (occasionally higher) | Neville Shulman Challenge Award: up to £10,000 (two awards/year)
Summary: Grants support ambitious overseas expeditions and fieldwork advancing geographical knowledge, with schemes for a range of disciplines and expedition types.
Key Information: Multiple schemes with different eligibility and project focuses; UK residency often required for lead applicants.
Description
The Royal Geographical Society (RGS) offers a portfolio of expedition and fieldwork grants supporting challenging and original geographical research and journeys worldwide. These grants encourage scientific, humanitarian, and cultural exploration, with a focus on advancing geographical knowledge, fostering local collaboration, and supporting early-career researchers and explorers. Multiple grant schemes are available, each with distinct aims, eligibility criteria, and funding levels, including support for polar research, humanitarian projects, and expeditions with strong research or cultural components.
