What Works Centre for a climate resilient UK

Establish and lead a What Works Centre that generates, synthesises and mobilises evidence to accelerate UK climate adaptation and resilience. The centre will work with policy and practice partners on adaptation pilots and interventions, combine quantitative and qualitative approaches, and develop evidence for effective action. A single 44-month award must start by 1 August 2027. The maximum funder contribution is GBP 21.1 million, normally at 80% of full economic cost with stated exceptions at 100%, subject to the published annual budget profile and funding approvals. Applications opened on 1 October 2026 and close on 15 December 2026 at 16:00 UK time.

The project lead must be based at a UK research organisation eligible for ESRC/UKRI funding throughout the grant. UK businesses, third-sector bodies, government organisations and non-UK organisations cannot lead. At least one co-lead must come from a UK business, third-sector or government body. Both quantitative and qualitative methods are required; associated studentships and clinical trials are excluded.