# EPSRC Strategic Infrastructure 2026 (Invite Only – Full Proposal Stage)

**Funder:** EPSRC
**Application:** 2-stage: outline (closed) → full proposal (invite only) → expert review → shortlisting → interview panel
**Frequency:** One-off
**Eligible countries:** GB
**Official call:** https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/epsrc-strategic-infrastructure-2026-invite-only/
**Last verified:** 1 July 2026

## Eligibility & scope

Full proposal stage open only to applicants invited after the 2026 outline panels. Covers strategic infrastructure and resources to support existing strategic infrastructure (£400k+ equipment threshold). UK research organisations eligible. Applications without a formal invitation will be rejected. Proposals must demonstrate national equipment-sharing context and include an accessibility plan.

## Summary

EPSRC Strategic Infrastructure 2026 funds major equipment and resources (£400k+) to support strategic research infrastructure across UK institutions. This is the full proposal stage, open only to organisations invited after the 2026 outline panel; a formal invitation letter is mandatory for submission. Proposals must demonstrate national equipment-sharing models and include detailed accessibility plans to advance research capability across the UK.

## Who should apply

- UK-based research organisations with formal invitation letters from the outline stage
- Institutional teams proposing equipment, facilities or sustained resource investments above £400,000
- Applicants able to articulate national or regional equipment-sharing and access models
- Organisations prepared to develop and implement accessibility plans for the proposed infrastructure

## Key dates

- Full proposal deadline: 30 November 2026 (invite only, applications without formal invitation will be rejected)
- Expert review and shortlisting period follows submission
- Interview panel expected week commencing 30 November 2026

## Tips for applicants

- Possession of a formal outline-stage invitation letter is non-negotiable; submit without one and you will be desk-rejected.
- The accessibility and national-sharing narrative is scored as heavily as technical merit, embed it throughout, not as an afterthought section.
- Prepare for a panel interview; articulate how your infrastructure will be accessed by the wider UK research community.

## Frequently asked questions

### Do I need an invitation to apply to EPSRC Strategic Infrastructure 2026 full proposal stage?

Yes, a formal invitation letter from the outline stage is mandatory; applications without it will be rejected.

### What is the minimum budget for EPSRC Strategic Infrastructure 2026?

Equipment and resources must be valued at £400,000 or above.

### Who is eligible for EPSRC Strategic Infrastructure 2026?

UK-based research organisations that have been invited to the full proposal stage following the outline panel review.

### Will there be an interview for EPSRC Strategic Infrastructure 2026?

Yes, shortlisted proposals will be subject to a panel interview expected in the week commencing 30 November 2026.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/epsrc-strategic-infrastructure-2026-invite-only-fu) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.