AHRC Standard research grant: applicant-led mode

This AHRC standard research grant pays for well-defined collaborative projects across the arts and humanities, in areas covered by AHRC's remit. It runs in applicant-led mode, so you shape the project yourself.

You need a project lead and at least one project co-lead. Each of you must help develop the application, lead and manage the project, and share in jointly authored research. You do not need an academic, research or teaching post. Archivists, curators, librarians, technicians and practitioners are welcome. International researchers can join as a project co-lead (international).

The full economic cost of your project must be between £300,000 and £1.5 million. AHRC will fund 80% of that cost. Awards can run for up to five years, and projects must start at least nine months after you submit.

Projects should build working relationships between researchers, within and beyond the arts and humanities and within and beyond the UK, and with practitioners and others who may benefit. They should also give less experienced researchers the chance to grow by working with senior colleagues and by leading projects.

The opportunity opened on 23 September 2026 at 9:00am and closes on 21 September 2028 at 4:00pm. You must be based at a UK research organisation eligible for AHRC funding, and only the lead research organisation can submit an application.

One practical point: AHRC aims to complete assessment within nine months of receiving your application, so plan your project start date with that in mind. PhD studentships are not funded.

Official source: https://www.find-government-grants.service.gov.uk/grants/ahrc-standard-research-grant-applicant-led-mode-grant-1. Last checked by GrantMatch on 16 October 2026.