The RICHeS Access Fund helps researchers, organisations and heritage professionals gain access to cutting-edge equipment, collections and expertise, including mobile units. By covering costs that might otherwise be a barrier, the fund encourages collaborative, interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary research while showcasing the value and impact of a national heritage science infrastructure. Whether you are an individual researcher, an academic institution or a museum, the Access Fund can help you bring your heritage science projects to life.
The RICHeS Access Fund specifically addresses the challenge of cost, supporting both users and service providers. By facilitating access to the RICHeS-funded distributed infrastructure, the fund also supports the development of expertise and career progression, particularly for Research Technical Professionals (RTPs).
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).
Who can apply?
We welcome applications from a broad range of individuals and organisations. Eligible users include, but are not limited to:
- Galleries, libraries, museums and archives
- Individual researchers, including PhD or other students whose funding does not already cover costs associated with their research
- Academic organisations and educational establishments (such as schools, colleges, and universities)
- Registered charitable bodies and social enterprises
- Commercial companies or freelance specialists working in collaboration with eligible partner organisations
Please note: Lead applicants must be based in the UK, and all funded work must be undertaken in the UK.
Timeline
First Call of the RICHeS Access Fund:
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Closed on 10 December 2025
- Full Application Stage Opens: Wednesday 28 January 2026
- Full Application Deadline: Wednesday 8 April 2026
- Funding decisions announced: June 2026
- Expected Work Completion: By March 2027
Further information and next steps
To support applicants, RICHeS will host an online webinar on Wednesday 11 March 2026, 10:00-11:00 GMT. The session will provide guidance on completing a Full Application and offer the opportunity to ask questions about eligibility and project scope.
Please register to join the webinar here.
For detailed guidance on eligibility, available funding, and the application process, please visit our how to apply page.
