UK-Ireland collaboration in the creative economy: research networking awards

About the Open Call

This bilateral programme aims to build and consolidate partnerships between creative industries researchers, industry experts, and policymakers in Ireland and the United Kingdom. It facilitates knowledge exchange, innovative networking activities, and strategic collaboration across various creative sectors to strengthen the creative economy ecosystem in both nations. Supported sub-sectors include advertising, architecture, crafts, design, film, IT/games, publishing, museums, and the performing arts.

What is Offered

The UK component can be up to £35,000 (80% FEC funded). The Ireland component provides up to €35,000 direct costs plus 30% overheads. The grant is for a fixed term of 12 months.

Requirements

Applicants must be based at an organization eligible for AHRC or Research Ireland funding. Each application must be joint-led by eligible research organisations from both the UK and Ireland. Projects must focus on at least one specified creative economy sub-sector and must commence by 30 September 2026.

How to Apply

The lead UK research organisation must submit an application to UKRI via the Funding Service. The Irish lead applicant must provide documentation including a budget form, cover sheet, and letter of endorsement, and a PDF copy of the research proposal must be sent to creative.economies@researchireland.ie by the deadline.