# Public Engagement Spark Awards 2026a

**Funder:** STFC (UKRI)
**Budget:** Up to £20,000
**Deadline:** 25 August 2026 (4:00pm UK time)
**Duration:** 12–36 months
**Application:** Single stage
**Eligible countries:** GB
**Official call:** https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/public-engagement-spark-awards-2026a/
**Last verified:** 18 June 2026

## Eligibility & scope

UK-based host institutions only. Funds public engagement projects with strong links to STFC science remit (astronomy, particle physics, quantum technologies, etc.). Every application must include a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in an STFC-funded remit area. 100% FEC funded. Projects must not start before 1 February 2027. Targets under-served communities ('Wonder' audience) are prioritised.

## Summary

The Public Engagement Spark Awards 2026 funds public engagement projects in astronomy, particle physics, quantum technologies and related STFC science, with up to £20,000 available over 12-36 months. The call is open to UK-based host institutions and prioritises projects serving under-represented communities ('Wonder' audiences). All applications must include a named Subject Matter Expert in an STFC-funded research area, and projects receive 100% FEC funding with no project start before 1 February 2027.

## Who should apply

- UK-based host institutions (universities, research organisations, museums, science centres)
- Project teams with a named Subject Matter Expert in astronomy, particle physics, quantum technologies or other STFC science remit
- Organisations working with under-served or under-represented audiences ('Wonder' communities)
- Projects launching no earlier than 1 February 2027

## Key dates

- Deadline: 25 August 2026 at 4:00pm UK time
- Single-stage application
- Project duration: 12-36 months (start date no earlier than 1 February 2027)

## Tips for applicants

- Every proposal needs a named, active Subject Matter Expert from an STFC-funded research area, generic science advisors will not meet the gate criterion.
- Articulate explicitly how your project reaches under-served audiences; STFC prioritises 'Wonder' audience engagement and scores this heavily.
- Budget the full 100% FEC; institutions often underestimate overhead costs for public engagement projects, which typically require dedicated outreach staff and materials.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much can I request in a Public Engagement Spark Award?

Up to £20,000 over a 12-36 month project period. All costs are funded at 100% FEC.

### Who must be involved in a Public Engagement Spark Award application?

Every application must include a named Subject Matter Expert in an STFC-funded research area (astronomy, particle physics, quantum technologies, etc.).

### When can my Public Engagement Spark Award project start?

Projects must not start before 1 February 2027.

### Who is eligible to apply for a Public Engagement Spark Award?

UK-based host institutions, including universities, research organisations, museums and science centres.

### Does STFC prioritise certain audiences for Public Engagement Spark Awards?

Yes, projects targeting under-served or under-represented communities (called 'Wonder' audiences) are prioritised in the assessment.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/ukri-stfc-public-engagement-spark-awards-2026a) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.

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