Championing Equity in STEM: Royal Society of Chemistry’s Inclusion and Diversity Fund

The Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) is inviting applications for its Inclusion and Diversity Fund, designed to support initiatives that promote equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) within the chemical sciences. Open to individuals, community groups, schools, universities, and not-for-profit organisations worldwide, the fund provides up to £5,000 per project. The fund aims to break down barriers and create an inclusive culture in chemistry by encouraging innovative projects that foster accessibility, representation, and equitable participation.

Examples of eligible activities include workshops, training sessions, research studies, and community outreach programs. The RSC particularly encourages applications that demonstrate scalability, community engagement, and a clear long-term impact. Projects should align with the RSC’s broader strategy to advance inclusivity in STEM fields, particularly in education and professional environments.

Applications are reviewed throughout the year on a rolling basis, allowing for flexible timing and responsiveness to emerging EDI needs. This fund not only empowers individuals and organisations to drive change locally and globally but also strengthens the scientific community by supporting a more diverse and inclusive talent pipeline.

Key Points for Policymakers:

Scalable and community-driven EDI initiatives are being actively funded, offering a model for public sector replication.
Low-barrier access to funding encourages grassroots participation in STEM inclusivity efforts.
Highlights the role of professional societies in systemic change, complementing government efforts in education and workforce diversity.