BA/Leverhulme Small Research Grants 2026: Up to £10,000 for Humanities Research

Are you a researcher in humanities or social sciences looking for funding to kickstart a new project? The BA/Leverhulme Small Research Grants offer up to £10,000 for innovative work. This program from the British Academy and Leverhulme Trust supports postdoctoral scholars worldwide through UK-based leads.

What Is the BA/Leverhulme Small Research Grant?

The BA/Leverhulme Small Research Grants scheme funds primary research in humanities and social sciences. It helps with early project stages, collaborations, data collection, fieldwork, and sharing results. Each grant tops out at £10,000, perfect for focused, high-impact studies.

This program stands out as one of the British Academy’s most popular options. It backs fresh ideas that push academic fields forward. Scholars use it to test concepts before seeking bigger funds.

Funding Coverage and Eligible Expenses

These grants cover many research costs with flexibility. You can pay for travel and living expenses during fieldwork. Access to archives, libraries, or databases counts too.

Other uses include hiring research help, buying materials, or hosting workshops and meetings. Planning costs fit as well. Note that salaries and big equipment like computers do not qualify.

Who Can Apply? Eligibility Rules

Postdoctoral researchers or those at a similar level can apply. You need ties to a recognized institution or a strong track record as an independent scholar. The main applicant must live in the UK most of the time.

Co-applicants from any country welcome international teams. Global partnerships add strength to proposals. Early-career and mid-career academics often succeed here.

Ideal Candidates and Target Groups

This grant suits university staff, researchers at institutions, and solo scholars in humanities or social sciences. Teams testing new ideas or building networks benefit most. It provides seed money for pilot data to win larger awards later.

Researchers from Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, and beyond can join as partners. UK leads make projects eligible while drawing in diverse views.

Supported Fields of Study

Projects span all humanities areas like history, literature, and philosophy. Social sciences include sociology, economics, and political science. The British Academy accepts varied methods and cross-field work if it shows clear value.

Interdisciplinary ideas score well with strong plans. Focus on academic quality to stand out.

For details and to apply here.

Project Length and Timeline

Grants run from one month to 24 months. Set clear goals and ways to measure success. A tight timeline helps reviewers see feasibility.

Main Benefits and Features

Winning boosts your career with prestige from the British Academy. Funds adapt to your needs, from trips to events. It fosters global ties despite the UK lead rule.

The program funds many projects each year. Success brings visibility and opens doors.

Tips for a Winning Application

Define a sharp research question with real importance and new angles. Outline methods, steps, and budget that match. Show how £500 to £10,000 fits the plan.

Reviewers check quality first. Ties may break equals through random picks for fairness.

Key Limits and Rules

Request at least £500, no more than £10,000. It skips PhD theses, salaries, or teaching cover. Deliver outputs like papers or reports.

Why It Appeals Globally

UK leads required, but co-investigators from anywhere join easily. It funds worldwide topics through partnerships. Check more info here.

Deadline: 27th May 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BA/Leverhulme Small Research Grant?

It funds primary research in humanities and social sciences up to £10,000 for early project stages like data collection and fieldwork.

Who can apply for this grant?

Postdoctoral researchers or equivalent with a UK-based lead applicant; co-applicants from anywhere are welcome.

What expenses does the grant cover?

It covers travel, access to archives, research assistance, workshops, and materials, but not salaries or large equipment.

What is the application deadline?

The deadline is 27th May 2026.