Grant News
The Institute of Physics is currently inviting applications for its Public Engagement Grant Scheme. This initiative supports projects aligned with the IOP’s Limit Less campaign, which seeks to broaden public engagement with physics, particularly among groups that are underrepresented in the field.
Projects should engage families with young people under the age of 16 from groups such as girls and young women, disabled young people, LGBTQ+ youth, those from disadvantaged backgrounds, and Black Caribbean communities. The scheme offers up to £4,000 per project for events and activities that promote positive relationships with physics and enhance existing engagement efforts across the UK and Ireland.
A wide range of activities are eligible for funding. These include: (not an exhaustive list)
- Community-based projects involving families or youth groups through storytelling, hands-on activities or interactive displays;
- Public events and festivals that present physics in informal and engaging formats; and workshops or demonstrations tailored for specific underrepresented audiences.
- Creative collaborations using theatre, art or digital media to explore physics are also encouraged, as are outreach projects led by universities, museums, or community organisations that extend physics into new community spaces.
Eligible applicants include individuals, researchers, museums, community groups, non-profits, schools arts organisations, and libraries.
Schools considering applying should design activities that are accessible and appealing to both students and their families, ensuring that the projects align with the IOP’s objectives of broadening public engagement with physics.
Examples of previously funded projects include:
- SPIDER Astronomy by Kielder Observatory, which offered interactive astronomy sessions;
- Eclipse Experimentation by The Real Photography Company, combining physics and photography;
- ARC and You’s initiative exploring the role of physics in addressing climate change.
The deadline for applications is 5pm on the 1st September 2025.
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