Frequently Asked Questions
This resource is updated regularly to provide additional clarification on the GCF Activation Call call, the application process and the supporting documents. Applicants will be encouraged to check the FAQs alongside the formal guidance before contacting the team.
What is a challenge-led idea?
For the purpose of this call, a challenge-led idea is one that addresses a significant societal, economic, environmental, cultural or technological challenge and requires the coming together of expertise from different disciplines to develop new understanding, approaches or solutions.
What does novelty mean in this context?
Novelty does not necessarily mean that the challenge itself has never been addressed before. In this context, novelty may relate to the distinctive framing of the challenge, the combination of disciplines involved, the connection between existing and emerging University strengths, the proposed approach, the potential partnership model, or the route towards future funding and impact.
Can I apply with an idea that is still at an early stage?
Yes. Ideas do not need to be fully developed. The programme is designed to help explore and shape promising concepts.
Ideas may be at an early stage and might identify, for example:
- an emerging societal challenge requiring new interdisciplinary approaches;
- an opportunity to connect distinct areas of University expertise;
- a novel concept that could form the basis of a future funding application;
- a challenge where key collaborators have not yet been identified.
Do I need an interdisciplinary team before applying?
No. Applications from individuals are welcome. The programme aims to help participants identify potential collaborators.
Can I apply with existing collaborators?
Yes. Applications from existing teams of collaborators are welcome. Teams should be open to developing their idea through the programme, engaging with constructive challenge and, where appropriate, connecting with additional collaborators from other disciplines or professional backgrounds.
Is funding provided through this call?
No. The Activation Call provides structured development support rather than direct project funding. The next round of GCF Seed Funding will launch in April 2027.
Do I need to know which funder I will apply to in future?
No. However, applicants should be able to describe the potential for future external funding and identify external funders with relevant funding opportunities.
What level of time commitment is expected?
The development process will be tailored to the selected ideas. We anticipate delivering a series of three half-day facilitated workshops for each selected idea between January – March 2027. Once ideas have been selected, invited participants will be given advance notice of workshop dates, participation will be dependent on availability to attend all three workshops, and undertake preparatory work between workshops as required.
What can I expect to gain from participation in this process if my idea is selected?
Participants can expect opportunities to:
- refine and strengthen their challenge-led idea;
- build new interdisciplinary collaborations;
- test assumptions and identify evidence gaps;
- improve understanding and awareness of potential funding opportunities;
- develop the foundations of a future funding proposition.
How will additional workshop participants be identified?
Additional workshop participants will be identified through discussion between the selected applicant, the GCF team, College research offices and other relevant University networks. This may include colleagues with complementary disciplinary expertise, professional services knowledge, external funding insight, partnership experience or challenge-area knowledge. Applicants are not expected to have all collaborators identified at the point of application.