Aims/priorities: The funding is intended for community-based groups and organisations in the UK to run their own science activities during British Science Week, working directly with people who are traditionally hard-to-reach and currently not engaged in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) activity. The aim is to expand the audiences that engage with science and self-identify as having an interest in science.
The theme for British Science Week 2026 (taking place from 6 to 15 March 2026) is ‘Curiosity: what’s your question?’
Who can apply? Applications will be considered from community-based groups and organisations that work directly with audiences who are traditionally underrepresented and currently not engaged in science activity.
Groups that are traditionally underrepresented in science include:
- People from ethnic minority backgrounds.
- People living in communities which face deprivation, including people disadvantaged in terms of education and income.
- People with a disability or long-term health condition.
- People living in a remote and rural location, defined as settlements of less than 10,000 people.
- Girls and women, with priority given to community groups who work with at least one other underrepresented group.
Applications from special educational needs, additional support needs, hospital and supplementary schools, as well as English as a Second Language groups are also welcome.
Activity providers, libraries, museums and other institutions who are looking for funding to run an event with a group that meets one of the target audiences are encouraged to partner with a community group. The community groups should take ownership of the activity and apply for the grant directly themselves.
Grant amount: Grants of up £600 are available.
Application process: Guidelines and the online application form are available on the British Science Week Website.
Deadline: The deadline for applications to support British Science Week 2026 is 24 November 2025 (17:00).
Contact information: Email: communities@britishscienceassociation.org
Website: https://www.britishscienceweek.org/grants/community-grant-scheme/