ESRC React Awards (pilot)

The ESRC React Awards (pilot) provide responsive grant funding for time-critical social science research that supports UK policymakers or frontline practitioners in public services. Projects must be applicant-led, deliver outputs that will be actioned within six months, and include at least one UK public sector collaborating partner. Awards can last up to six months and are intended to start quickly after funding confirmation.

Grant funding covering 80% of full economic costs for projects up to six months; rapid assessment and expectation of project start within one month of outcome.

Applicants must be based at a UK research organisation eligible for ESRC funding and have a confirmed partnership with at least one UK public sector organisation able to action project outputs within six months. Eligible applicant organisations include UK research organisations, UKRI institutes, NHS bodies, independent research organisations, public sector research establishments and Catapult centres. International researchers may apply as an international project co-lead with other international collaborators listed as project partners.

Apply through the UKRI funding service application portal; applicants may submit a remit query form if unsure about remit. Applications are accepted responsively and assessed via a streamlined process.