Applications are open for the British Academy Early Career Researcher Network (ECRN) Seed Fund 2025-26.

The British Academy’s Seed Fund Awards offer early career researchers—particularly those still building experience in securing external funding—a valuable opportunity to strengthen their research portfolios and lay the groundwork for future funding success.

With up to £5,000 available per project, the awards are designed to be flexible and responsive to the needs of members of the British Academy Early Career Researcher Network. They provide space to develop new collaborations, explore bold and innovative ideas, and take research in new directions.

• Discover the 2024–25 award recipients here

White Rose University Consortium members have access to this funding programme following the recent creation of the ECRN’s new Yorkshire and Humber cluster which offers early career researchers in humanities and social sciences access to a comprehensive range of tailored support.

Find out more about the ECRN Seed Fund 2025-26 and apply here. Applications close on Wednesday 19 November 2025.

Seed Fund applicants must be members of the British Academy Early Career Researcher Network. You can join the network here