RICHeS Access Fund Full Application Stage Now Open

The RICHeS Access Fund is now open for Full Applications, supporting heritage science and conservation researchers, museums and organisations to access world-class equipment, specialist facilities, nationally important collections and expertise across the UK. Opening on Wednesday 28 January 2026, the RICHeS Access Fund removes barriers to access and enables collaborative, multidisciplinary projects that demonstrate the value and impact of the UK’s national heritage science infrastructure. The application deadline is Wednesday 8 April 2026, with funding decisions announced in June 2026.

Funding Available 

The maximum grant award is up to £20,000 which should include the total eligible costs for the project,
including those incurred by your Service Provider(s).

Key dates:
Full Application Stage Opens: Wednesday 28 January 2026
Full Application Deadline: Wednesday 8 April 2026
Funding decisions announced: June 2026

Benefits of the RICHeS Access Fund

The RICHeS Access Fund:

• Removes financial and practical barriers to accessing cutting-edge equipment, fixed and mobile
  facilities, collections, and specialist expertise
• Supports interdisciplinary, collaborative and multidisciplinary research and partnerships
• Enables ambitious, high-impact heritage science and conservation projects
• Demonstrates the value and impact of the UK’s distributed national heritage science infrastructure

Applicant Support Webinar 

RICHeS Access Fund Webinar: Wednesday 11 March 2026, 10:00–11:00 GMT. Register here
The webinar will:

• Provide an overview of the RICHeS Access Fund Call
• Offer guidance on completing the Full Application
• Answer questions on eligibility and project scope

For full guidance, eligibility information and to submit your application, visit the RICHeS Access Fund webpage.