The Research Ireland Discover Programme 2026 in Ireland is now accepting applications from organizations and institutions seeking funding for public engagement, research communication, and education-focused initiatives. This highly competitive funding call supports projects that strengthen the connection between research and society through outreach, awareness campaigns, and innovation engagement activities.
As global demand for research communication grants, science outreach funding opportunities, public engagement with research programs, and STEM education funding in Europe continues to rise, the Research Ireland Discover Programme 2026 offers a major opportunity for universities, NGOs, educational organizations, and research institutions to secure substantial funding support. Selected projects can receive up to €300,000 for initiatives designed to improve public understanding of research, encourage participation in innovation, and increase awareness of societal challenges through education and engagement activities.
Unlike traditional academic scholarships, this programme focuses on large-scale collaborative projects that create measurable societal impact. The 2026 call also expands beyond STEM disciplines, encouraging applications from social sciences, humanities, arts, policy, and interdisciplinary research communication fields.
Research Ireland Discover Programme 2026 Overview
- Host Country: Ireland
- Funding Organization: Research Ireland
- Programme Type: Public Engagement & Research Communication Funding
- Funding Type: Partial Funding
- Maximum Funding: Up to €300,000 per project
- Project Duration: Up to 2 Years
- Eligible Applicants: Organizations and Institutions
- Application Mode: Online via SESAME System
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Available Subject Areas
The programme supports projects across a wide range of academic and research disciplines, including:
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
- Social Sciences
- Arts and Humanities
- Education and Learning Innovation
- Public Policy Engagement
- Research Communication
- Interdisciplinary Outreach Projects
The Discover Programme 2026 strongly encourages innovative proposals that connect research with broader communities and increase societal participation in science and innovation.
Benefits of the Research Ireland Discover Programme 2026
Selected projects will receive substantial financial and institutional support.
Funding Support
Projects may receive funding of up to €300,000, depending on the scale, impact, and objectives of the proposal.
Long-Term Project Duration
Approved initiatives can run for up to two years, allowing organizations to develop sustainable and impactful outreach programs.
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Public Engagement Opportunities
The programme supports:
- Science communication activities
- Educational workshops
- Community outreach initiatives
- Public awareness campaigns
- Research participation projects
- Innovation engagement programs
Institutional Collaboration
Successful applicants may gain opportunities to collaborate with:
- Universities
- Research institutions
- Government agencies
- Policy organizations
- Educational bodies
Increased Visibility
The programme helps organizations strengthen their visibility in research communication and public engagement at national and international levels.
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Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Research Ireland Discover Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must belong to an eligible organization or institution
- Must propose a project focused on public engagement with research and innovation
- Must demonstrate measurable societal impact
- Must provide a clear outreach and communication strategy
- Must meet all compliance and documentation requirements
- Must secure institutional approval where applicable
Projects with strong educational, societal, and community impact are highly encouraged.
Eligible Organizations
Applications are generally accepted from:
- Universities
- Research institutions
- Educational organizations
- Non-profit organizations
- Community engagement groups
- Science communication organizations
- Public sector bodies
Collaborative applications involving multiple institutions may strengthen the proposal.
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Application Procedure
Applications must be submitted online through the official SESAME platform.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Register on SESAME
Create or access an institutional account on the SESAME online system.
Step 2: Prepare Project Proposal
Develop a detailed proposal outlining:
- Project objectives
- Public engagement strategy
- Target audience
- Expected societal impact
- Budget allocation
- Project timeline
Step 3: Upload Supporting Documents
Submit all required institutional and compliance documentation.
Step 4: Obtain Institutional Approval
Applicants affiliated with research institutions may need internal authorization before submission.
Step 5: Submit Before Deadline
Complete and submit the application through the SESAME system before the official closing date.
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