upcomingGrant
Contract for Innovation: Innovation in play to improve child outcomes
Executive Summary
This £3M ESRC-led fund provides up to £500,000 per project for organizations developing practical solutions to enhance real-world play environments and improve children's learning and developmental outcomes.
Expected Launch
September 2026
Funding Body
Innovate UK
Eligible Applicants
SME, Large, RTO, Academic, Charity
Funding Available & Project Rates
Total fund of £3 million with a maximum award of £500,000
Official PortalView Competition Brief
Target Sectors
digital technologyhealthcare
Technology Scope
play environmentschild developmentlearning outcomesreal-world experienceseducational tools
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Competition Scope & Overview
Funding for organisations to develop practical solutions that reignite the importance of play and increase access to high-quality, real-world play environments and experiences to improve the learning and development outcomes of children and young people. Part of the Research and Development Missions Accelerator Programme. Lead: ESRC