Engineering Education Grant Scheme
Overview
Who is Eligible?
EEGS supports projects which improve wider engineering literacy and brings about a better understanding of the role of the engineer, and the contribution engineering makes to society. Organisations or individuals able to develop and deliver STEM activities in the UK can apply for funding, including schools, science communicators, youth clubs, science festivals, museums, science centres, STEM based companies, FE colleges, Higher Education Institutions and members of IET and IMechE.
They are keen to receive applications from teams with diverse expertise, a range of skills and from a variety of sectors. Where possible, individuals and organisations applying are encouraged to form partnerships with those able to add value to funded activities. Professional engineering institutions are welcome to work in partnership but cannot be the lead organisation or receive grants from this scheme. They welcome enquiries from institutions who wish to contribute to the scheme as funders.
Involvement of Engineers and Advocates
It is important to the funders all projects are supported by local engineers. Members of IET and IMechE can support projects by providing engineering insight, participating in the development of projects or resources, supporting the delivery of activities, presenting prizes at competitions or anything else that will help the project bring about a better understanding of the role of the engineer and the contribution engineering makes to society. Applications to the scheme must be either led by members, have members as co-applicants, or have a member Advocate. Any engineer who is a member of IET or IMechE can fulfil this requirement and are to be named on the application. It is helpful to have a clear idea of how your engineer can support the project before you apply, and you are welcome to approach any of your existing IET or IMechE contacts to support your project.
If you do not have existing contacts, please contact your IET Local Networks (LN), your IET Education Officers/Ambassadors, your IMechE Member Networks, or your IMechE Regional Education Officers (REOs). If unsuccessful in securing an Advocate through these channels please request an Advocate directly.
They strongly advise this request is carried out prior to writing your application, as applications submitted without will be withdrawn from consideration. Your listed IET/IMechE member or Advocate may be contacted, so please ensure you have their permission to share their details with us
What sort of projects and activities can be funded?
A wide range of projects can be supported. Any UK project that aims to promote a better understanding of engineering, inspire young people to study STEM subjects or raise awareness of engineering and technology-based careers could be funded. Some activities are excluded (see below) and funding will only be granted to not-for-profit activities. Previously successful projects.
Available funding
Two levels of funding and rounds are available each year, in the Spring and Autumn. Awards of up to £5,000 are available for standard applications, and a smaller number of awards of up to £15,000, both inclusive of any applicable VAT. The higher funding amount is designed for projects which can demonstrate wider reach, for example changing practice across a number of organisations or at national level, or for projects having strategic or long-reaching effect.
Assessment Criteria
EEGS supports projects which inspire, increase levels of engineering knowledge and have the potential to change any negative attitude towards engineering. Applications will be assessed by a panel of judges against the following criteria:
1. Presentation of clear objectives;
2. Levels of inspiration, enjoyment and student engagement;
3. Level to which the project endeavours to increase levels of engineering understanding;
4. Innovation in the approach to enrich and enhance STEM learning;
5. Demonstrate how the project will reach out to young people who do not normally participate in engineering;
6. Levels to which the project supports or complements the delivery of STEM in schools or elsewhere;
7. The use of engineers and technicians as role models;
8. Quantitatively and qualitatively measurable outcomes;
9. Clear method of demonstrating how objectives have been fulfilled, at an appropriate level for the scale;
10. Demonstrable cost effectiveness;
11. The potential to be sustainable without further IET/IMechE funding.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Scheme is committed to promoting diversity in engineering and increasing positive perceptions of engineering in a diverse and inclusive audience. Applicants should ensure their project actively considers diversity in areas including; gender, academic ability, ethnic background and social advantage.
Public Liability Insurance (PLI) and Child Protection (CP) requirements
Before applying check the PLI and CP requirements for the local authorities in the area/s in which you intend to undertake your project and schools in which you will be working. You are asked to confirm your project team comply with these requirements or, if you do not at the time of application, that the process is underway to meet these requirements, including sufficient PLI. Project personnel who will be working with young people should hold a valid Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate.