Applications open for Community Research Grant Program (UK)

Deadline: 27-Mar-2026

The Community Research Grant Program is now accepting applications from VCSE (Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise) organizations in Yorkshire and Humberside to collaborate with York St John University in conducting research aimed at benefiting communities facing disadvantage or marginalization.

Who is Eligible?

• VCSE organizations with a track record of community engagement and delivery within Yorkshire and Humberside.

• The program is particularly focused on areas like Scarborough, Whitby, Filey, and Bridlington, which are home to coastal and rural populations.

• Priority is given to organizations that are community-led, have significant community participation, and are typically smaller, local groups.

Why It Matters

This funding program provides VCSE organizations with the opportunity to partner with York St John University, enabling them to conduct research that supports social justice, evidence-based practices, and community-driven change. By collaborating on impactful research, these organizations can enhance their ability to deliver services, inform strategic change, and address social, economic, and environmental challenges affecting disadvantaged communities.

The program also fosters genuine collaboration between VCSE organizations and academic experts, helping to shape research that directly benefits marginalized groups.

Funding Details

• Grant Amounts: Typically range from £5,000 to £10,000 per project.

• Funding Purpose: To fund research collaborations that benefit VCSE organizations and the communities they serve. Grants can cover a variety of activities such as:

  • Research to support social justice and best practices.

  • Developing evidence to expand service delivery or inform strategic change.

  • Projects that aim to create positive social, economic, or environmental impacts.

Eligible Activities

1. Community Benefit: Projects that have a clear, positive impact on communities, particularly those facing social inequalities.

2. Collaborative Research: Partnerships between VCSE organizations and York St John University to create genuine, open collaborations with academic experts.

3. Social Justice and Best Practices: Research aimed at advancing social justice, improving best practices, or expanding service delivery within communities.

4. Engagement with Affected Communities: Ensuring that the research process actively involves communities in shaping and delivering the outcomes.

Application Process

1. Eligibility Check: Ensure your VCSE organization has a proven track record of engagement in the community and operates within Yorkshire and Humberside.

2. Partnership with University: Confirm the research proposal involves genuine collaboration with York St John University.

3. Clear Impact: Make sure the project has a positive, measurable impact on communities facing disadvantage.

4. Submit Proposal: Complete the application, detailing how the research will benefit the organization and community, and how the project aligns with the program’s priorities.

Common Mistakes and Tips

• Lack of Clear Community Focus: Ensure the project clearly defines how it will benefit the community and involve them in the research process.

• Weak Collaboration: Demonstrate genuine collaboration between the VCSE organization and York St John University, showing how both parties will contribute to the research.

• Overly Broad Proposals: Focus on projects that have a clear, measurable impact rather than a broad or general approach.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much funding is available?

   • Grants range from £5,000 to £10,000 per project.

2. What types of organizations can apply?

   • VCSE organizations with a proven track record of social engagement, based in Yorkshire and Humberside.

3. What is the geographic focus of the program?

   • The program focuses on Scarborough, Whitby, Filey, Bridlington, and surrounding coastal and rural areas.

4. What types of projects are eligible?

   • Projects that address social justice, improve best practices, expand service delivery, and directly benefit communities facing disadvantage.

5. Can small, local organizations apply?

   • Yes, the program encourages small, local community-led organizations to apply.

Conclusion

The Community Research Grant Program is an excellent opportunity for VCSE organizations in Yorkshire and Humberside to partner with York St John University and conduct research that will directly benefit disadvantaged communities. With grants ranging from £5,000 to £10,000, this program empowers organizations to address critical social, economic, and environmental challenges, foster community-led solutions, and create lasting positive impact. If your organization is committed to social justice and community engagement, consider applying for this valuable funding opportunity.

For more information, visit York St John University.