What Works Centre for a climate resilient UK
What Works Centre for a climate resilient UK supports researchers and non-academic partners to generate, test and share evidence that helps decision-makers accelerate effective climate adaptation across the UK.
This grant was recently updated
You still have until 15 December 2026 at 4:00pm UK time to apply for up to £21.1 million. Check the newly listed section word limits and partner-cost guidance, plan for at least six UK pilots, and use the opportunity’s centre name in your application. A new B2Match partnering link can help you find collaborators.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: December 15, 2026, 4:00pm UK time (Applications) | August 1, 2027 (Latest start)
Funding Amounts: Up to £21.1 million funder contribution for one 44-month award
Summary: Establish an independent centre to generate, test and mobilise evidence that accelerates effective climate adaptation across the UK.
Key Information: Applications must include at least one UK-based business, third-sector or government project co-lead.
Description
UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) are co-funding an independent What Works Centre, with devolved governments as formal partners. Administered through the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), the centre will transform how the UK adapts to current and projected climate impacts by generating, synthesising and mobilising trusted evidence for policy, governance and investment decisions.
The centre must convene stakeholders, identify evidence needs, test and scale effective actions, advance adaptation evaluation practice, and strengthen decision-makers’ capacity. Its programme must cover healthy natural environment and food systems, thriving places, and services and infrastructure. Co-production, place-based adaptation, equity and vulnerability underpin the work, alongside practical evaluation of effectiveness, implementation and value for money.
