The new capital funding scheme aims to enable building projects that will enhance leading-edge UK biomedical research.

In July, the Wellcome Trust announced a call for proposals for infrastructure projects, such as new buildings or refurbishment of existing laboratories, as part of an ongoing effort to ensure that UK-based scientists are equipped with world-class facilities.

The capital funding scheme, which will run every two years, will provide funding for large capital projects that enable internationally competitive research and would not otherwise be possible. This Trust scheme will add to the major improvements in the UK research infrastructure achieved by the Joint Infrastructure Fund and Science Research Investment Fund: partnerships between the Trust and the UK Government that injected a total of £1.85 billion into the UK science infrastructure in the first half of this decade.

Up to £30 million is available for the first round of the new Trust scheme, which will provide funding for large-scale projects of more than £1m, in partnership with the host institution, which will also need to meet ongoing revenue costs. Proposals can include requests for research equipment provided is a clear fit with the strategic rationale for the capital build, but applications for equipment only will not be accepted.

Preliminary enquiries should be submitted by 5 November 2007 and full applications, if invited, will be required during March 2008. The Strategic Awards Committee will take funding decisions in July 2008.

Please note that refurbishment costs under £250 000 can be requested when applying for other grants, such as programme grants or senior fellowships. Capital funding to support public engagement and medical history or for learned societies is also available from the Trust.

See also

• Capital funding to support science-based activity