The Research Ireland Discover Programme is a national funding initiative designed to strengthen public engagement with research and innovation across Ireland and beyond. It supports organisations that develop education and outreach projects aimed at increasing public participation in research, while also improving understanding of how innovation shapes society, the environment, and everyday life. The programme is delivered in collaboration with the Department of Education and Youth, ensuring alignment between education policy and research engagement. Through this initiative, Research Ireland seeks to create meaningful connections between researchers, educators, policymakers, and the general public. A key feature of the programme is its inclusivity. It extends beyond STEM fields and now welcomes proposals across all academic disciplines, encouraging broader societal dialogue and interdisciplinary collaboration. Funding Details and Duration The Discover Programme provides significant financial support to successful applicants. Key funding details include: Funding of up to €300,000 per project Project duration of up to two years Support for education and public engagement initiatives Focus on long-term societal impact and participation The funding is intended to help organisations design innovative programmes that increase awareness of research careers, improve scientific literacy, and encourage active participation in research-related activities. This funding model is designed to enable both large-scale national initiatives and targeted community-based engagement projects. Eligibility Criteria and Participating Organisations Eligibility for the programme is broad, allowing a wide range of organisations to apply. However, all applications must be submitted by organisations based in the Republic of Ireland. Eligible applicants may include: Universities and higher education institutions Public sector organisations and research bodies Charities and non-profit organisations Community-based organisations and civic groups International partners (as collaborators, not lead applicants) Applications are processed through the SESAME platform, which manages submissions and documentation. Additional eligibility requirements include: Organisations listed as eligible research bodies must obtain internal approval before submission State bodies must provide senior executive sign-off Other organisations must submit financial statements, governance documents, and eligibility verification forms Certain research centres require prior approval before applying These requirements ensure transparency, accountability, and alignment with national research standards. Application Process and Requirements The application process is structured and requires careful preparation. Organisations are expected to submit detailed proposals outlining their project goals, methodology, and expected impact. Key steps in the application process include: Completing eligibility verification forms Submitting organisational governance and financial documentation Preparing a detailed project proposal through the SESAME system Obtaining institutional approval where required Ensuring submission before the official deadline Applicants are encouraged to prepare early, particularly if additional eligibility documentation is required. Failure to complete mandatory pre-application steps may result in disqualification. The programme also supports partnerships, allowing Irish organisations to collaborate with international partners to enhance project reach and impact. Key Objectives and Expected Impact The Research Ireland Discover Programme is designed to achieve several strategic objectives: Increase public engagement with research and innovation Promote awareness of research careers among young people Encourage informed dialogue between researchers and the public Strengthen collaboration between research, policy, and society Expand access to inclusive and community-driven education initiatives By funding innovative outreach projects, the programme helps ensure that research is not limited to academic environments but is actively shared with wider society. This contributes to greater public trust in science and improved understanding of complex global challenges. Important Deadlines and Submission Requirements Applicants must carefully observe all deadlines to remain eligible for funding. Key dates include: Application deadline: 11 June 2026 at 13:00 (Irish time) Eligibility confirmation deadline for certain organisations: 28 May 2026 Submission must be completed via SESAME before closing time Late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances. Organisations are advised to begin the application process well in advance to allow sufficient time for documentation, approvals, and system submission. How to Apply The application process can be summarised as follows: Review eligibility criteria and programme guidelines Confirm organisational status and required approvals Prepare supporting documentation and financial records Develop a detailed project proposal focused on public engagement Submit the application through the SESAME platform Await review and evaluation by Research Ireland panels Careful attention to documentation and compliance requirements significantly improves the likelihood of a successful application. Conclusion The Research Ireland Discover Programme represents a major investment in public engagement with research and innovation. By supporting inclusive, accessible, and collaborative projects, it helps bridge the gap between academic research and society. Through its partnership with the Department of Education and Youth, the programme strengthens educational pathways and encourages participation in research across all disciplines. Its flexible funding structure and broad eligibility criteria make it a key driver of innovation engagement in Ireland. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. 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