Public Engagement Fund
Learn more about applying to our 2024-25 Public Engagement Fund
Public Engagement Fund
The Public Engagement Fund supports projects that improve public understanding of the use of data in research.
About the 2024-25 fund
After considerable interest and impact from a pilot fund in 2022/23, the RDS Public Engagement Fund returns in 2024/25, with a total of £30,000 available to support public engagement and involvement with data science. Organisations can apply for £1,000 to £10,000 to deliver new work or build on existing projects.
Community fund
New for this year, a portion of the total fund will be ringfenced for a pilot community fund, supporting a community organisation to engage people in data research. The community project will be further supported through assistance and guidance from RDS public engagement professionals.
Aims
The aims of the 2024-25 Public Engagement Fund are to:
- Communicate the impact of data research
- Showcase cutting-edge data research
- Involve new audiences
- Create new partnerships
Apply now
Click below to learn more about applying for our Public Engagement Fund or our community fund.
Community fund
Learn more about applying for the Public Engagement Fund as a community organisation.
Key dates
- Monday 2 September: Applications open
- Wednesday 25 September: Online information session and Q&A. Register to attend.
- Monday 14 October: Applications close
- January 2025: Projects begin
- January 2026: Projects end
2022-23 Fund
The 2022-23 round of the Public Engagement Fund was a pilot to test interest and evaluate proposed projects.
A total of £56,856 was awarded to projects that help widen participation by involving and engaging members of the public.
Related content
Working with communities for more meaningful public engagement
Rachel Edwards, Public Engagement Officer, reflects on her visit to the Engage Live 2024 conference, and how we can keep evolving public engagement practices for a better future for all.
Rachel Edwards
30 May 2024
Reflections from our inaugural Public Engagement Fund
Public Engagement Manager, Katie Oldfield, reflects on our 2023 Public Engagement Fund and the impact of the projects it has supported.
Katie Oldfield
11 Mar 2024
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