Deadline: 18-May-2026
The 2026 Science Week Funding Programme supports public engagement projects that connect communities with science, research, and innovation across Ireland. It provides funding of up to €50,000 for festivals and up to €10,000 for individual events that promote inclusive STEM participation. The programme targets universities, public bodies, and organisations delivering accessible science outreach during Science Week 2026.
The Science Week Funding Programme 2026 is a national Irish funding initiative designed to improve public understanding and engagement with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
It supports events and festivals that:
- Make science accessible to all communities
- Encourage inclusive participation in STEM
- Increase public awareness of research and innovation
- Reach underrepresented or new audiences
The programme aims to broaden participation by involving science, arts, education, media, youth, and community sectors.
Key Objectives of the Programme
1. Inclusive STEM Engagement
- Encourage participation from diverse communities
- Reduce barriers to science engagement
- Promote equal access to STEM learning
2. Public Science Communication
- Translate research into accessible formats
- Promote interactive science experiences
- Support storytelling in science outreach
3. Regional and Community Outreach
- Expand Science Week beyond traditional centres
- Support underserved regions
- Strengthen local science engagement capacity
4. Cross-Sector Collaboration
- Link science with arts and culture
- Involve education and youth organisations
- Engage media and community groups
Funding Overview
Grant Amounts
- Up to €50,000 for science festivals
- Up to €10,000 for individual events
Funding Purpose
Funding supports:
- Event organisation and delivery
- Public engagement activities
- Festival programming
- Outreach initiatives
- Audience development activities
The goal is to increase accessibility and participation in science-related activities nationwide.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible Applicants
The programme is open to:
- Universities and higher education institutions
- Institutes of technology
- State bodies (e.g., local authorities)
- Research organisations
- Registered charities and community organisations
- Other eligible organisations (subject to review)
Institutional Requirements
Research Bodies
- Must obtain internal institutional approval
- Applications must be authorised before submission
State Bodies
- Must submit signed organisational cover sheet
- Must confirm institutional endorsement
Other Organisations
Must provide:
- Organisational structure and governance details
- Registration and legal status
- Financial information and supporting documents
- Strategic eligibility application
Important Dates (Science Week 2026)
- Programme opens: 30 March 2026
- Festival application deadline: 11 May 2026 (13:00 Irish time)
- Event application deadline: 18 May 2026 (13:00 Irish time)
Applicants are advised to prepare early due to strict submission deadlines.
Why This Programme Matters
The Science Week Funding Programme plays a key role in:
- Increasing public understanding of science and innovation
- Building trust in scientific research
- Supporting national STEM engagement strategy
- Encouraging lifelong learning and curiosity
- Strengthening Ireland’s science communication ecosystem
It ensures science is accessible, engaging, and relevant to all citizens.
How the Application Process Works
Step 1: Define Your Project
- Festival or standalone event
- Target audience and engagement strategy
- Alignment with Science Week goals
Step 2: Check Eligibility
- Confirm organisation type
- Ensure institutional approval (if required)
Step 3: Prepare Documentation
Include:
- Project description
- Budget breakdown
- Audience engagement plan
- Organisational details
Step 4: Submit Application
- Submit before relevant deadline
- Ensure all forms are complete and signed
Step 5: Review Process
- Applications assessed for quality and impact
- Evaluation based on engagement and inclusivity
Step 6: Funding Decision
- Successful applicants notified after review
- Funding agreement issued
Tips for a Strong Application
- Focus on inclusive and diverse audiences
- Use creative and interactive engagement methods
- Clearly explain science communication outcomes
- Demonstrate regional or community impact
- Include partnerships across sectors
- Provide realistic budgets and timelines
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing institutional approval (for universities/research bodies)
- Submitting after deadline
- Weak audience engagement strategy
- Poor alignment with Science Week objectives
- Incomplete financial or organisational documentation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the maximum funding available?
Up to €50,000 for festivals and €10,000 for individual events.
2. Who can apply?
Universities, research institutes, state bodies, and eligible organisations in Ireland.
3. When is Science Week 2026 funding open?
The programme opens on 30 March 2026.
4. What is the deadline for applications?
11 May 2026 for festivals and 18 May 2026 for events.
5. What is the main goal of the programme?
To increase public engagement with science and STEM fields.
6. Are non-research organisations eligible?
Yes, if they meet strategic eligibility requirements and provide supporting documentation.
7. Can schools apply directly?
Schools typically participate through eligible partner organisations or institutions.
Conclusion
The Science Week Funding Programme 2026 is a national initiative designed to make science more accessible, engaging, and inclusive across Ireland. By funding festivals and events, it strengthens public understanding of STEM and encourages participation from diverse communities.
It plays a vital role in connecting research with society and building a stronger culture of science communication nationwide.
For more information, visit Research Ireland.