John Innes Foundation

The Foundation funds scientific research, education, training and public engagement within the scope of plant and microbial science, agriculture, horticulture and environmental science. This includes project delivery, capital works and the maintenance and exploitation of a unique historical collection of books and documents. A key priority is innovation in agriculture and horticulture, and the Foundation works in close association with partners such as the John Innes Centre and the University of East Anglia. While its grant-making is UK-wide, it retains a particular emphasis on Norfolk and the Norwich Research Park, where many of its partnerships are rooted. The Foundation also supports training for young people and public engagement activities that bring plant and microbial science to wider audiences.

General Grants are open to registered charities, trusts, schools and community groups. The Foundation does not fund individuals outside its specific training schemes, which support students undertaking agriculture degrees and doctoral researchers in plant and microbial sciences. Beneficiaries of the Foundation’s work include young people, students and the general public. Applicants should be working in areas aligned with the Foundation’s scientific scope, and those with existing or potential links to Norfolk and the Norwich Research Park are especially encouraged.

The Foundation does not fund individuals outside its dedicated schemes, core costs unless integrated into a broader programme, or salaries under its general grants. Projects outside the scope of plant and microbial science are not supported. It also avoids non-strategic or ad-hoc initiatives that lack institutional partnership, and projects without ties to Norwich or a clear measurable impact.

The John Innes Foundation makes multi-year grants, supporting research, training, project delivery and capital works. It favours collaborative, strategic initiatives developed in partnership with its nominated institutions and welcomes unsolicited applications that align with its priorities. Funding is given with a long-term perspective, reflecting the Foundation’s commitment to building the capacity and impact of plant and microbial science.