Micro-scholarships: Digital technology in the Circular Economy

We are excited to announce our first micro-scholarships program.

A small number of separate grants of £500 each are available to support small-scale research into the role of digital technology in the Circular Economy.

Why?

If we are to successfully tackle major issues such as climate change, waste crises and biodiversity loss, the linear economy has to change. We must transform all elements of the take-make-waste system: how we manage resources, how we make and use products, and what we do with the materials afterwards.

The Circular Economy is a vital part of achieving this, while creating a thriving economy that can benefit everyone within the limits of our planet.

These micro-scholarships are one small way that we hope to encourage and support the transition to a more circular economy, and especially to ensure that digital technology is a positive force.

Who?

Primarily aimed at students or anyone doing Circular Economy studies.

However, anyone can apply and from anywhere in the world!

We especially encourage applications from anyone who may not have access to enough other support (e.g. due to under representation or geographical location).

How?

1. Complete the simple application (see below)
   • Closing date 11th March 2022
2. We review applications 
   • We'll respond to all applications, including those we are not able to support
3. Scholarship amount is transferred directly to successful applicants
   • They are expected to share publicly a written report (see below)
   • There are no other requirements or strings attached.

Selection Criteria 

• We are looking to support projects that:
  • are directly related to the role of digital technology (software) in transitioning to a more circular economy. We are open to any ideas within this broad definition.
  • are based on relevant research, ideally with engagement or experiments with multiple stakeholders.
  • may be a project already planned (e.g. as part of an educational course) or could be a research project created specifically for this scholarship.
  • result in at least a written report that can be shared publicly, within 6 months of scholarship received
• We may also consider the following beneficial:
  • Research aimed at expanding or improving existing small scale or early stage circular economy projects.
  • Application from underrepresented individuals or groups who might otherwise struggle to find enough support for this type of small project.