The Public Engagement with Research unit invites applications for funding to grow and develop high quality Public Engagement projects and activities during the 2026/27 academic year that aim to strengthen the role of public engagement with University of Southampton research, promote mutually beneficial outcomes and evidence to inform and progress both research and its impact. The Public Engagement Development Fund has previously supported engagement projects that have developed sustained change and impact, providing evidence to develop future funding bids, partnerships and contributions to the 2020 REF Impact Case Studies.
The call is framed by the National Co-ordinating Centre for Public Engagement definition:
“Public engagement describes the myriad of ways in which the activity and benefits of higher education and research can be shared with the public. Engagement is by definition a two-way process, involving interaction and listening, with the goal of generating mutual benefit.”