Reimagining Science’s Social Compact: A Call for Letters of Interest
The Packard Foundation's 'Reimagining Science’s Social Compact' grant supports projects that explore and redefine the relationship between science and society.
Funder: David & Lucile Packard Foundation
Due Dates: July 22, 2026: Letter of Interest (Phase I) deadline | September 11, 2026: Phase II application deadline
Funding Amounts: Up to $75,000 per project; project duration flexible as proposed in application.
Summary: Supports projects that critically examine and propose new perspectives on the evolving relationship between science and society.
Key Information: Only applicants submitting a Phase I LOI are eligible for Phase II funding.
Description
This funding opportunity, presented by the David & Lucile Packard Foundation in partnership with The Kavli Foundation, seeks projects that explore and reimagine the "social compact" between science and society. The initiative encourages innovative proposals that examine the expectations, obligations, and norms shaping how science is funded, conducted, governed, and held accountable to the public. The call is intentionally broad, inviting scientists, scholars, policy professionals, civic and community groups, and other stakeholders to propose diverse approaches—such as convenings, online fora, publications, or planning grants for larger-scale efforts—to strengthen the connection between science and the broader public. The program is structured in two phases: an initial Letter of Interest (LOI) phase, followed by a full proposal invitation for selected applicants.
