SFI Discover Programme - Opportunistic Funding Mechanism

The Science Foundation Ireland Discover Programme Call aims to support and develop science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) education and public engagement sector in Ireland by:

• investing in, developing and extending activity and ability in this area, and
• exploring and encouraging novel means of engaging the public 

The purpose of the Call is to support projects that encourage people of all ages and from all walks of life to be informed, inspired and involved in STEM and applications must clearly outline how the project will address Science Foundation Ireland’s goal to have an engaged and scientifically informed public in Ireland. 

The Call consists of a two-stage process as follows:

• an initial expression of interest form (available here) should be completed addressing the nature of the project and the co-funding available; the strategic objectives and benefit of the project and the potential impact of the project.  In addition to this the Project Lead will be required to submit a CV with details of a track record in the project area. The expression of interest will be reviewed by the Science Foundation Ireland Education & Public Engagement Team who may request a meeting with applicant(s) to discuss the proposal further. 
• Applications that clearly demonstrate the strategic importance and impact of their proposal will be invited to submit a full proposal on the Discover Programme Opportunistic Funding Application Form.  Full proposals will be evaluated using an appropriate mechanism such as international peer review (depending on the level of funding sought).

The Call is open to a wide range of people and organisations, including mediators and practitioners of science communication; STEM festival organisers; science centres, museums and other cultural attractions; artists; educators; professionals and academics in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM); arts agencies; production companies; schools; local authorities (libraries, city/county councils etc.); universities and colleges; youth clubs; community groups; and research institutes. 

Partnership projects (between different people and organisations, e.g. scientists and ethicists, educators and artists) are welcomed.

Proposals must be explicitly aimed at engaging audiences in the Republic of Ireland, however the subject matter can be international.  Applications are welcome from organisations not based in the Republic of Ireland; however, they must demonstrate in their application how the project will explicitly engage with their target audience in the Republic of Ireland.

Applicants are required to apply through an organisation, such as an academic institution, charitable body, not-for-profit organisation or commercial company and supply the required background and financial information requested in the application form.

Any queries in relation to this call should be emailed to //discover.programme@sfi.ie">discover.programme@sfi.ie.