EPSRC programme grant outline stage

About this grant

Programme grants provide flexible funding to world-leading UK research groups addressing significant research challenges. Funding should bring together the expertise of a team of internationally recognised scientists or engineers to focus on one strategic research theme. Funding can be awarded for up to six years. You must contact the relevant theme contact before applying. Applications are paused from 1 December 2025 for energy and decarbonisation, manufacturing and circular economy, and quantum technologies themes.

Eligibility requirements

All of the following criteria must be met:

• Must contact relevant theme contact before applying
• Must be based at a UK research organisation eligible for EPSRC funding
• EPSRC standard eligibility rules apply
• No uninvited resubmissions accepted
• Project co-lead (international) only for UKRI-RCN or UKRI-IIASA agreements
• Applications paused for energy and decarbonisation, manufacturing and circular economy, and quantum technologies from 1 December 2025

What the funding covers

• 80% of full economic costs
• Duration up to six years
• Equipment up to £400,000 per item
• Flexible allocation of resources between projects

How to apply

1. 1Apply through UKRI Funding Service. Submit outline proposal including: Summary (550 words), Core team details, Strategic vision and fit to programme grant scheme document (5 pages + 1 page workplan), Outline costs (500 words), Project partners details, Facilities (250 words). No fixed closing dates - applications batched internally. If outline successful, will be invited to submit full proposal.

Application tips