# Future Data Services Sandpit: Transforming Discovery and Access

**Funder:** ESRC (UKRI)
**Budget:** Up to £21.6M (shared across 5–10 projects, 80% FEC)
**Deadline:** 3 December 2026 (Full proposal deadline (post-sandpit). Expression of Interest deadline not specified in this segment. Sandpit takes place 12, 14, 19, 23 October 2026.)
**Duration:** 24–48 months (start by 1 April 2027, end by 31 March 2031)
**Consortium:** Required — projects must partner with an existing ESRC social science data service infrastructure investment; co-leads from UK business, third sector or government permitted
**Application:** 2-stage: Expression of Interest → Sandpit (Oct 2026) → Full proposal (deadline ~3 Dec 2026)
**Frequency:** One-off
**Eligible countries:** GB
**Official call:** https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/future-data-services-sandpit-transforming-discovery-and-access/
**Last verified:** 14 June 2026

## Eligibility & scope

UK-based organisations only (non-UK applicants ineligible). Projects must enhance existing ESRC social science data service infrastructures (no new services). Focus on improving data discovery, access to sensitive data, technology-enabled pipelines (incl. AI), and upskilling data service staff. Must include an upskilling work package. Business/third sector/government co-leads permitted but cannot lead projects.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/esrc-ukri-future-data-services-sandpit-transforming-discover-2026-12) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.