Open Call Research Grants

The Froebel Trust Open Call Research Grants scheme offers funding for original research projects that advance Froebelian principles in early childhood education. The Trust is an independent UK-based charity dedicated to supporting research, practice, training, and professional learning that enhances understanding and application of Froebelian philosophy. Its mission includes advocating for young children, enabling early educators, and informing policymakers. The Open Call scheme is one of the Trust’s key funding mechanisms to generate new knowledge and insights rooted in Froebelian educational values. For the 2026–2027 cycle, the theme guiding applications is “relationships matter.” This focus aligns with the Froebel Trust’s emphasis on social relationships and interconnection as foundational elements in early learning environments. However, applicants must also demonstrate a comprehensive grasp of Froebelian pedagogy and illustrate how their proposals relate to other Froebelian principles. Grants of up to £50,000 are available for projects conducted by either individual researchers or collaborative teams. Applicants must be affiliated with an organisation, and while applications are open internationally, they must be written in English and denominated in GBP. Eligible projects must be original research involving children from birth to eight years. Research should be designed with strong ethical integrity, detailed project management, and a clear dissemination plan. Applications are welcome from any discipline or institution, and multi-partner projects spanning countries or organisations are encouraged. Special consideration is given to projects involving underrepresented populations or addressing inequality, particularly those working in areas of deprivation or that promote inclusion and diversity. The grant covers directly incurred personnel costs related to the project, up to 20% for activity and production costs (such as materials or travel), administrative support, publicity, VAT (if unrecoverable), and specific checks (e.g., DBS in the UK). However, it does not fund infrastructure, salaries unrelated to the project, educational qualifications, or retrospective costs. All submissions must be made through the online portal and be counter-signed by an authorised institutional representative. Applications submitted after the deadline or not using the portal will not be accepted. The application portal opens at 9am UK time on January 12, 2026, and the deadline is 4pm UK time on May 22, 2026. Applicants will be notified if shortlisted by July 3, 2026, and final outcomes will be announced on July 10, 2026. Funded projects must commence between October 1, 2026, and March 31, 2027. The selection process includes an eligibility check, evaluation by the Trust’s Scrutiny Group, and review by the Grants Panel. Criteria include originality, alignment with Froebelian principles, potential impact, ethics, value for money, and capability to deliver. Successful applicants must comply with detailed reporting, financial, and publicity requirements, including submission of mid-term and final reports, expenditure statements, and participation in evaluation or dissemination activities. Grant holders may also be invited to contribute to public seminars or conferences hosted by the Trust. Questions can be directed to Mariana Macías Márquez at [email protected].

Ensure strong alignment with Froebelian principles and articulate potential benefits for children and early years educators.