Design Generators (Grant)

Application Components: Online application including project proposal, methodology, team details, cost justification, and supporting documents

Application Platform: UKRI Funding Service

Assessment Criteria: Vision; approach; team capability; ethics and responsible research; data management; project partners

Decision Process: Expert panel review followed by AHRC final decision

Eligible Research Costs: Design research, innovation activities, community engagement, skills development, public participation, and outreach activities

Environmental & EDI Requirements: Projects must contribute to environmental sustainability; equality, diversity, and inclusion is encouraged across applicants and delivery

Funding Structure: £150,000 to £200,000 per project; AHRC funds 80% of full economic cost; project duration 9 to 12 months

important notes: Each organisation can submit up to two applications; each project team can participate in only one application; projects must include at least 50% design discipline focus; collaboration with stakeholders is required

Ineligible Applicants: Individuals based outside the UK; freelancers and independent consultants; subcontractors; applicants proposing PhD studentships

Ineligible Costs: Costs not clearly linked to project activities; projects not rooted in design discipline; activities outside the UK

Key Organisational Requirements: Must be led by a UK research organisation; each project must include a non-academic partner contributing to delivery and impact

Objectives: To generate innovative design-led solutions that contribute to environmental sustainability and support the UK’s green transition

Project Start Date: Projects must start by 1 September 2026