New in 2009, the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation has launched the Innovation Fund, to support genuinely innovative ideas and unusual partnerships across our cultural, educational and social interests. This is now the only funding stream open to applications, which are welcomed from non-for-profit organisations only.

Overview:
Not-for-profit organisations can apply for R&D funding to scope a new idea which enables them to work together with other organisations or experts outside their usual practice, or to enable them to undertake active research into areas they would not normally have the time or money to explore. This fund is not open to individuals. We particularly welcome ideas that take the perspective of people at the receiving end of activities or services, whether as audiences, participants or clients. We are also looking for ideas that demonstrate a cross-sectoral approach.

If projects are specifically local they must be of a kind that have not been implemented elsewhere and which can set a precedent for emulation in other places, or serve as a national pilot. Although the host applicant and prime beneficiaries should be resident in the UK or Republic of Ireland, we are also interested in proposals that may involve European partners or that emulate good practice in other countries.

The funds available for Innovation grants are modest in scale and competition is likely to be strong. As a guide, it is expected that grants will average between £10,000 and £25,000.  Although we may occasionally give funding for projects that are developed as a result of an Innovation grant, we stress that we do not guarantee continued support.

For full details and application guidelines visit - www.gulbenkian.org.uk