Applications for the 2026 Research Fund are now closed and will reopen in February 2027.
At the heart of the CIPR's mission is the contribution the Institute and members make to developing the public relations profession and to shaping societies around the world.
Research has been, and will remain, pivotal to our development and success since we were founded in 1948 and we're keen for the PR Research Fund to play its part every year as we welcome applications from all areas of practice.
Successful research fund applicants also have the opportunity to undertake a CIPR training course to help refresh or develop their research skills and knowledge (T&Cs apply).
About the Research Fund
The CIPR Research Fund, initiated in 2021, awards grants to CIPR members conducting independent research at any stage of their careers. The scheme supports critical investigation into a wide range of subject matters relevant to the development of PR and communications management, in-line with the Institute's Royal Charter and five-year strategy . All research projects should focus on advancing PR practice with practical outputs which are replicable at scale.
Applications are welcome from individuals or pairs of CIPR members at any stage of their research careers.
In 2026, the maximum grant per application is £2000.
Applications for this year are now closed, however more information on the entry criteria and eligibility can be found in our Research Fund FAQs.
Research Projects commissioned in 2025 for publication in 2026.
- Cultural Digital Inclusion: A PR Toolkit for Engaging Diverse Community Initiatives in Scotland, by Olushola Damilola Adetutu MCIPR
- From screens to speech. Investigating Gen Z anxieties with direct interpersonal communication within the PR profession, by Anne Nicholls Chart.PR, Dip CIPR, MCIPR and Richard Bailey Hon FCIPR
- Impact Beyond Borders: Expanding Global Access for Young African Communicators, by Adedoyin Jaiyesimi Chart.PR, MCIPR
Please note than due to the anticipated large number of applications, we regret that we are unable to give additional information to applicants beyond the feedback provided by the panel.