The Flexible Fund
The Research Capability Hub Flexible Fund supports the development of new training and capacity-building opportunities that address priority needs within the UK social science community. The Fund is an important part of the Hub's commitment to supporting innovation, collaboration and community-led approaches to strengthening research capability across the social sciences.
About the Flexible Fund
As the UK's social science research landscape continues to evolve, researchers require access to training that reflects emerging methods, new ways of working and changing societal challenges. At the same time, evidence gathered by the Research Capability Hub has identified areas where existing provision remains limited or fragmented.
The Flexible Fund has been established to help address these gaps.
Through a series of funding calls, the Fund will support researchers, organisations and training providers to develop innovative learning resources and activities that strengthen research capability across the social sciences. The priorities for each call will be informed by ongoing engagement with the research community, ensuring that investment is responsive to current and emerging needs.
First funding call
The first Flexible Fund call will open on the 10th August 2026 (provisional date).
Tier 1 of the Fund will support the development of openly accessible online courses that address priority areas identified through the Hub's evidence-gathering and community engagement activities. Up to five projects will receive up to £10,000 funding each to develop new learning resources that will benefit researchers across disciplines, institutions and career stages.
Priority themes
The priority themes for the first call are:
- Participatory Research Methods
- Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Research
- Working Across Disciplines
These themes were identified through a structured programme of engagement and needs analysis involving researchers, training providers and research infrastructure organisations from across the social science community.
How to apply
The application process has been designed to be proportionate and accessible. Applications will be submitted through a simple online form, with guidance and supporting materials available through the Hub. The deadline for submission of proposals will be the 27th September 2026 (provisional date).
Information sessions
To support prospective applicants, the RCH team will host online information sessions on 18 August 2026 and on 14 September 2026. These sessions will provide an overview of the funding call, priority themes, eligibility requirements and application process, as well as an opportunity to ask questions.
Outputs and impact
All resources developed through the Flexible Fund will be openly available through the Research Capability Hub, helping to strengthen the national research training landscape and maximise the benefit of funded activities.
Contact us
As this is the first Flexible Fund call, we welcome questions, feedback and conversations with prospective applicants. If you would like to discuss an idea or learn more about the Fund, please contact the team.