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.
Flexible Fund Tiers
| Tier | Fund per project | Project duration | Launch date |
| Tier 1 | Up to £10,000 (fEC) | Up to 6 months | 13 August 2026 |
| Tier 2 | £10,000 - £50,000 (fEC) | Up to 18 months | Spring 2027 |
| Tier 3 | £100,000 - £200,000 (fEC) | Up to 36 months | Spring 2027 |
Tier 1 Funding Call
The Flexible Fund Tier 1 call opened on the 13th August 2026.
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 (fEC) funding each to develop new learning resources that will benefit researchers across disciplines, institutions and career stages.
How to apply
Applications for currently open funding calls should be submitted using the application documents provided with each call.
Application requirements, guidance notes and deadlines are published as part of the individual funding opportunity.
Applicant support
To support prospective applicants, the RCH team will hosting online information sessions. These sessions provide an overview of the funding call, priority themes, eligibility requirements and application process, as well as an opportunity to ask questions.
Contact us
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.