Funding opportunities
If you are undertaking a research project you need to consider whether it can be incorporated into your normal work routine and resources. If it is a medium to large project this may not be possible and you will need to seek funding. You can bid for funding from:
- your own organisation
- external associations
- research bodies
Consider seeking funding from:
- Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). The ESRC funds research and training in social and economic issues. A whole section of their website is devoted to funding opportunities including how to apply and what projects are currently being funded.
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Higher Education Academy (HEA). If you are a member of the HEA you can bid for funding for projects. Keep an eye on their
Research & Evaluation web pages for invitations to tender. Also the HEAs
National Teaching Fellowship Scheme
recognises and rewards individual excellence in teaching in higher education in England and Northern Ireland. In 2006 the HEA was funding both individual awards and projects.
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The HEA subject centres often fund projects related to learning and teaching. A list and links to the subject centres is available from the HEA subject centres web page. For example theHE A ICS funds learning and teaching projects through their Development fund. You do not need to be a member of the HEA ICS to apply for funding, you just need to work in Higher Education.
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Joint Information Services Committee (JISC). The JISC funds several medium to large projects every year related to IT and libraries. The JISC puts out a
call for projects in particular areas.
- CILIP Library and Information Research Group (LIRG). TheLIRG is dedicated to the promotion of Library and information research. They offer small grants: the Elsevier / LIRG Award worth £1,000, plus the LIRG student award worth £250.00.
- Your own institution. Most institutions will offer funding for learning & teaching projects. Talk to the equivalent of your Staff / Professional Development Team and your E-learning Team.