The Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) funds rigorous development and evaluation of education programmes in England, especially those intended to improve outcomes for disadvantaged pupils. It is unusually evidence-driven: it backs projects through early-stage design and formative testing, then open research funding rounds for pilot, efficacy, and effectiveness trials. Nonprofits, universities, schools, and delivery partners that can demonstrate a clear theory of change and a credible evaluation design are the best fit.
Runs structured, open funding rounds twice a year alongside a dedicated early-stage development stream. Grants are program-specific and evaluation-focused, often funding pilots and trials rather than unrestricted support; applicants are expected to partner with researchers and deliverers and to generate trustworthy evidence.
Watch the Spring and Autumn research funding rounds and the Early Stage Programme Development call for proposals; applications should clearly identify the evidence gap, target age group, and intended impact on disadvantaged learners in England. Strong bids usually include a robust evaluation partner, a feasible delivery plan, and measurable outcomes such as attainment, literacy, numeracy, or program uptake.
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Current and upcoming funding from The Education Endowment Foundation that your nonprofit may be able to apply for.
Who can apply: Schools, colleges, and early years settings in England may be eligible to take part in EEF-funded research projects or trials; specific eligibility depends on the individual project.
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Create a free accountDeadlines and eligibility are summarized from public sources and may change — always confirm the details on the funder's official application page before applying.