This report captures and shares the learning from the Community Knowledge Fund, a pioneering initiative delivered by UKRI’s Public Engagement team and The Young Foundation to create opportunities for more people to participate in research and innovation (R&I). Running from January 2022 to September 2024, the Fund invested £1.2m in 24 community organisations across the UK, alongside a structured learning and support programme designed to strengthen community-led R&I in practice.
Drawing on insights from both the funded organisations and the delivery of the cohort learning model, the report explores how institutions can break down barriers between R&I and society, supporting communities to determine, develop and deliver change that is meaningful to them. It highlights how community knowledge can enrich and strengthen the UK R&I system, and is intended to spark inspiration and inform future efforts to support community-led R&I.
Annex one provides detailed case studies from the funded organisations.
Community Community leadership Community needs and priorities Social innovation
Posted on: 5 March 2026 Authors: Daniel Farag,