The BA (British Association for the Advancement of Science) provides funding to branches in a number of ways, but most reliably as strategic grants.

To apply for a grant, read carefully through the information below and go to the online application form at the bottom of this page.

Grants are awarded according to the plans and past performance of Branches, as set against the BA’s strategic aims. Therefore, in order for branches to qualify, they must show how they help to further, or contribute to:

A. the BA’s two over-riding aims:

• to promote openness about science in society: between the public, policy-makers and other decision-makers, and the scientific and business community
• to engage and inspire adults and young people directly with science and technology, and their implications.

B. the principal programmes of the BA, namely:

• Science in Society (broadly defined)
• National Science and Engineering Week
• Festival of Science

C. these strategic objectives of the BA:

• Promote open discussion on science and society issues
• Provide opportunities for involvement in scientific activities
• Increase membership of the BA
• Broaden participation
• Generate net income
• Attract funding
• Ensure the BA is the partner organisation ‘of choice’
• Increase the sustainability of the Branch.

In addition, the BA will particularly favour applications from Branches where the BA grant will complement other successful local fundraising.

The criteria above constitute the broad territory in which the Branches should make funding applications. The BA does not, of course, expect Branches to attempt to meet all of the above headings.

Themes

For the second round of applications in 2008 and the first round in 2009, the BA would look favourably on events or projects with a link with Darwin.  This would be to tie in with Darwin200, a celebration of the anniversary of Charles Darwin's birth and the publication of "On the Origin of Species".

Eligibility

All Branches are eligible to apply for these grants, with the exception of Branches with cash balances of more than £3000 over two years and those currently receiving start up funding.

What kind of activity costs can be funded through these grants?

Branches can apply for the regular administrative costs of maintaining a Branch programme (postage, photocopying, printing, travel, venue and equipment hire and so forth) and special project costs (specific transport, printing, publicity, catering etc).  In certain circumstances, funds may be awarded to a branch to provide expenses or pay someone to undertake a particular project/administrative task.

Branches also in receipt of start-up funds may be asked to clarify whether the stated costs should not be met by the start-up funds, rather than by the strategic grant.

When will grants be allocated?

Branches work on different planning timeframes, so there are two bidding windows. 

The deadline for the first round of awards will be the second Monday in February.

The deadline for the second round of awards will be the second Monday in August.

Decisions will be made within one week.

Next deadlines:

9th February 2009
10th August 2009

8th February 2010
9th August 2010

How much is available?

Funds are available to allow all Branches (excluding those with balances over £3000) to receive an average of £350 this year.  This replaces the “branch payback” system which operated a couple of years ago. The maximum application will be £1000.

How should my Branch apply?

Please complete this simple online application form.

N.B. Please notify your regional officer if you plan on applying for this grant.  Thanks!