Summary
The Research Ireland Discover Programme 2026 invites applications from organizations and institutions for funding aimed at enhancing public engagement, communication of research, and education initiatives. This competitive funding opportunity is designed to foster connections between research and society through innovative outreach and awareness campaigns.
- 🌍 Programme Overview: Research Ireland Discover Programme 2026 offers funding for public engagement, research communication, and education initiatives in Ireland.
- 💶 Funding Details: Projects can receive up to €300,000, with a duration of up to 2 years.
- 🏛️ Eligible Applicants: Universities, research institutions, educational organizations, NGOs, community engagement groups, and public sector bodies.
- 🎓 Supported Disciplines: STEM, social sciences, arts & humanities, education innovation, public policy engagement, research communication, and interdisciplinary outreach.
- 📢 Project Focus: Initiatives must strengthen societal connection with research, raise public awareness, and encourage participation in science and innovation.
- 🤝 Collaboration & Visibility: Successful projects may collaborate with universities, research institutions, government, policy organizations, and educational bodies, increasing national and international visibility.
- ✅ Eligibility Criteria: Must belong to a qualifying institution, propose measurable societal impact, include a clear outreach strategy, and meet all compliance requirements.
- 📝 Application Procedure: Submit proposals online via the SESAME system; steps include registration, proposal preparation, document upload, institutional approval, and submission before the deadline.
- 🎯 Encouraged Projects: Large-scale, innovative, and collaborative initiatives with clear educational, societal, and community impact.
Designation
Public Engagement & Research Communication Funding
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Funding Organization | Research Ireland |
| Maximum Funding | Up to €300,000 per project |
| Project Duration | Up to 2 years |
| Application Mode | Online via SESAME System |
Research Area
Projects can encompass a wide range of subjects, including but not limited to:
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
- Social Sciences
- Arts and Humanities
- Education and Learning Innovation
- Public Policy Engagement
- Research Communication
- Interdisciplinary Outreach Projects
Location
Ireland
Eligibility/Qualification
To qualify for the Research Ireland Discover Programme 2026, applicants must:
- Belong to an eligible organization or institution
- Propose a project focused on public engagement with research and innovation
- Demonstrate measurable societal impact
- Provide a clear outreach and communication strategy
- Meet all compliance and documentation requirements
- Secure institutional approval where applicable
Eligible organizations include:
- Universities
- Research institutions
- Educational organizations
- Non-profit organizations
- Community engagement groups
- Science communication organizations
- Public sector bodies
Job Description
Successful applicants will receive funding and institutional support for outreach programs aimed at improving public awareness of research. Projects may involve activities such as:
- Science communication initiatives
- Educational workshops
- Community outreach programs
- Public awareness campaigns
- Research participation projects
- Innovation engagement activities
How to Apply
- Register on SESAME: Create or access an institutional account on the SESAME online system.
- Prepare Project Proposal: Develop a detailed proposal outlining project objectives, public engagement strategy, target audience, expected societal impact, budget, and timeline.
- Upload Supporting Documents: Submit all required institutional and compliance documentation.
- Obtain Institutional Approval: Ensure internal authorization for submission if affiliated with a research institution.
- Submit Application: Complete and submit the application through the SESAME system before the official closing date.
Last Date for Apply
Applications must be submitted by 7th May 2026.
