CfI: Innovation in play to improve child outcomes

UKRI will invest up to £3 million in this Contracts for Innovation competition, run through its Breaking Down Barriers to Opportunity Mission. It backs practical, evidence-informed solutions that bring play back into children's lives and improve their learning and development. The focus is the home learning environment, and it covers children and young people up to the age of 18.

This is phase 1 of a possible three phases. Each project can have total eligible costs of between £200,000 and £500,000, including VAT. Projects run for 12 months, from 1 February 2027 to 31 January 2028. UKRI expects to award up to 15 contracts. The funding is a contract rather than a standard grant, and at least 50% of the contract value must go on research and development.

You can apply as an organisation of any size, on your own or with subcontracted partners. Your project must strengthen face to face play and give children more access to real world play spaces and experiences. It needs a clear theory of change, a workable delivery model, a monitoring and evaluation plan and strong safeguarding. Applications without a clear theory of change will not go to assessment.

The competition opened on 15 September 2026 and closes at 11am UK time on 28 October 2026.

One thing to know before you start: several approaches are ruled out. These include AI tools, apps, online platforms, virtual and augmented reality, and consumer toys. Projects where screen use is the main way of delivering play will not be funded.

Official source: https://www.find-government-grants.service.gov.uk/grants/cfi-innovation-in-play-to-improve-child-outcomes-1. Last checked by GrantMatch on 16 October 2026.