We fund high quality research to advance knowledge and understanding of Froebelian philosophy, principles and approaches in early childhood education and care, which makes a positive impact on children, families and early childhood professional communities.
Apply for an Open Call Research Grant in 2026
The Froebel Trust Open Call Research Grants scheme provides funding of up to £50,000 for a team or collaborative research partnership to develop new and robust knowledge about Froebelian education. This funded research is vital for the Trust to be able to fulfil its charitable mission of enabling early childhood educators, advocating for young children and their families, and informing policymakers.
The focus for applications this year (2026-7) is ‘relationships matter’ although applicants will be expected to demonstrate a broader understanding of a Froebelian approach and to make links with the other Froebelian Principles.
Deadline 22 May 2026 at 4pm UK time
Application Portal
Apply NowWho can apply?
How do I apply?
What we cannot fund
If you are interested in applying for a grant:
- Make sure you read our Guidance for Applicants (2026)
- Have a look at our case study map with examples of Froebel Trust funded projects
- Search by keyword through our online Froebel Trust funded research and project library for examples of what we've funded before
Note: You can save your application before it has been completed and continue at a later date. You will need to create a password to do this.
You must make sure that you have permission from your institution before you submit your completed application.
Key information / downloads for applicants
- Guidance for applicants (2026)
- Statement on Expectations of Ethical Practice in Research
- Example of the Froebel Trust Deed of Grant
- Suggested referencing style for grant holder reports
If you have any queries about our grants or the application process please contact Mariana Macías Márquez at office@froebeltrust.org.uk.
The deadline for applications is 4pm UK time on Friday 22nd May 2026.
Equality, equity, diversity and inclusion
The Froebel Trust’s aim is to ensure that the funding and grants we offer are distributed fairly. We are committed to equality of opportunity, which means that we need to be mindful of barriers which may inhibit some people’s involvement; and to find ways to open up avenues for inclusion on an equitable basis. We are committed to increasing the inclusiveness of our grant-making processes, with the aim of achieving greater diversity in our applicants (including the schools, early years settings, organisations and universities which receive our funding).
All applicants that meet our funding criteria will be sent a link to our Equality Monitoring Survey. This helps us to understand how well we are reaching different groups of people. Answers are anonymous and participation is voluntary.
Take a look at our Froebel Trust Charter for Inclusive Practice.
We publish our annual accounts detailing our charity's structure, activities, income and spending and these can be found on the Charity Commission for England and Wales website. The Froebel Trust is a registered Charity No: 1145128. Registered as a Company limited by guarantee in England and Wales No: 07862112.
