EPSRC Strategic Infrastructure outlines: September 2026

Funding for strategic infrastructure that strengthens UK research capability within EPSRC’s remit. Route one supports purchase and set-up; equipment must cost at least GBP 400,000 including VAT, and requests above GBP 5 million require prior EPSRC approval. Route two supports improved use and sharing of existing infrastructure, for at most two years, and requires an invitation from the relevant EPSRC theme lead. These thresholds are not a guaranteed individual award.

Applicants must be based at an eligible UK research organisation and meet UKRI individual eligibility rules; eligible research technical professionals may lead. Institutions may submit no more than three applications per batching period. The first period runs September–December 2026. Applications should demonstrate strategic need, accessibility, sustainability and institutional priority. This is an open call with no closing date: UKRI processes submissions throughout the period, regardless of a system-generated future closing date. Submit an outline through Funding Service opportunity OPP1336; successful outlines are invited to a full application.

Eligible UK research organisations and applicants meeting UKRI individual eligibility; institutional demand management applies. Route two requires invitation.