R&D funding calls delays: What You Need to Know

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Recent developments in UK research and innovation funding have raised pressing concerns for both the research community and the agricultural sector. Funding delays, coupled with looming financial challenges, could significantly impact the progress of critical projects and the long-term resilience of the UK’s innovation ecosystem. Here’s an in-depth look at the current situation and what it means for stakeholders.

The Bigger Picture: UKRI and Domestic R&D Funding

UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) faces a precarious financial future due to increased costs associated with the UK’s participation in the Horizon Europe programme. With no additional funding commitments from the Treasury, a flat-cash settlement in the upcoming Spending Review could force UKRI to halt all new grant funding by 2025-26. This would mark a significant setback after several years of rising budgets and sustained public investment in research.

One particularly concerning development is the potential reduction in quality-related (QR) funding—block grants provided to universities to support research excellence. QR funding is vital for maintaining high-quality research environments, and any cuts would exacerbate financial pressures on universities, potentially threatening thousands of jobs in the sector.

Impacts on Farming and Food Security Funding

The agricultural sector is not immune to these challenges. Delays to Innovate UK (IUK) funding calls have created uncertainty for researchers, farmers, and organisations relying on these grants to advance innovative, sustainable farming practices. Some of the key competitions that have been delayed or remain without confirmed timelines include:

• Farming Futures R&D – Nutrient Management, Phase 2
• Small R&D Partnerships (Round 4)
• Feasibility Studies (Round 4)
• Farming Futures R&D – Net Zero Farming

These funding calls are essential for addressing critical issues such as food security, climate resilience, and sustainable land management. Their delay poses challenges for planning and resource allocation, leaving stakeholders in limbo as they await clarity on future opportunities. Follow the link to check for future updates on these calls.

Government Commitments and Investments

Despite these challenges, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting research and farming through targeted funding. The Spending Review confirmed a budget allocation of £2.4 billion for the next financial year, enabling continued investment in Environmental Land Management (ELM) schemes, biodiversity restoration, and sustainable farming practices.

These investments aim to bolster food security, reduce environmental degradation, and build resilience across the UK’s agricultural landscape. Notable initiatives include:

• The Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI): Open to all eligible farmers, this scheme provides funding to support sustainable land management for the benefit of both the environment and food production.
• Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier: Aimed at farmers and land managers engaged in advanced environmental practices, this scheme focuses on protecting habitats, improving water quality, and fostering biodiversity.
• Landscape Recovery: This initiative supports long-term biodiversity and environmental restoration projects, with ongoing rounds already in progress.

Read more here.

What’s Next?

The road ahead requires collaboration, transparency, and decisive action to address the funding gaps and delays. For stakeholders, staying informed and adaptable will be key. As more details about funding calls and budget allocations emerge, it will be critical to align strategies with the evolving landscape.

For the research and farming communities, the stakes are high. The outcomes of these funding challenges will shape the future of UK innovation, sustainability, and economic resilience.

Stay tuned for further updates as we continue to monitor developments in UK funding for research and innovation. If you have specific questions about how these changes might affect your organisation or projects, feel free to reach out.