YBB – Professionals with experience in science, engineering, innovation, and entrepreneurship now have an exciting opportunity to contribute to higher education and research ecosystems through the Royal Society Entrepreneur in Residence Program 2026. This prestigious initiative connects experienced entrepreneurs and industrial scientists with universities across England, helping bridge the gap between academia and industry.
The program encourages knowledge exchange between professionals and academic institutions. As a result, participants can share practical insights, support innovation, and help students understand real-world scientific and technological challenges. Moreover, the scheme promotes entrepreneurial thinking and strengthens collaboration between universities and businesses.
Funded by the Royal Society, the Entrepreneur in Residence (EiR) Program offers financial support, professional recognition, and valuable networking opportunities. Therefore, it is an excellent opportunity for experienced professionals who want to inspire future innovators while expanding their own impact in research and industry.
About the Royal Society Entrepreneur in Residence Program 2026
The Royal Society Entrepreneur in Residence Program aims to increase understanding of industrial science and innovation within universities. Selected participants spend approximately one day per week working with an academic department, where they share expertise, mentor students, and encourage entrepreneurial thinking.
Furthermore, participants contribute to research commercialization, innovation strategies, and industry engagement initiatives. Through these activities, universities gain valuable industry perspectives while entrepreneurs strengthen their connections with emerging talent and researchers.
Program Details
- Country: United Kingdom
- Organization: The Royal Society
- Program Type: Entrepreneur in Residence Program
- Duration: 2 Years
- Location: England
- Application Deadline: 19 August 2026
Benefits of the Royal Society Entrepreneur in Residence Program 2026
Successful applicants will receive financial and professional support throughout the two-year residency.
Benefits include:
- Annual salary of £25,000
- Coverage for travel expenses
- Accommodation support when required
- Funding for project-related costs
- Support for conference participation
- Access to workshops and training opportunities
- Professional recognition through association with the Royal Society
- Opportunities to build strong university-industry collaborations
- Enhanced professional development and networking opportunities
Additionally, participants will gain firsthand experience working with academic researchers while helping shape future innovation leaders.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Royal Society Entrepreneur in Residence Program 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Have a background in science or engineering.
- Demonstrate experience working in industrial research environments.
- Be eligible to work in the United Kingdom.
- Applicants of any nationality may apply if they meet UK work eligibility requirements.
- Clinical medicine is not covered under this scheme.
- Be able to contribute expertise in industry, innovation, or entrepreneurship.
Candidates should also possess at least one of the following:
- Experience managing collaborations between universities and businesses.
- Experience founding or developing companies.
- Experience or strong interest in mentoring and training others.
Furthermore, full-time employees, part-time professionals, and self-employed individuals are all eligible to apply.
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Online Information Session
To help prospective applicants prepare competitive submissions, the Royal Society will organize an online information session on 30 June 2026.
During this webinar, participants will:
- Learn about the application process.
- Understand selection expectations.
- Hear insights from industry leaders and entrepreneurs.
- Explore strategies for creating a strong proposal.
- Discover how to align their experience with program objectives.
Therefore, attending this session can significantly strengthen your application.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the Royal Society’s Flexi-Grant system.
Follow these steps:
- Register an account on the Flexi-Grant platform.
- Review and accept the program terms and conditions.
- Select the Entrepreneur in Residence 2026 application.
- Complete your personal and professional information.
- Answer diversity and career background questions.
- Provide details about your organization and experience.
- Prepare and submit your project proposal.
- Include the required financial information.
- Invite the required referees and institutional contacts.
- Review all information carefully before submitting.
Apply Now: https://royalsociety.org/grants/entrepreneur-in-residence/
Required References and Endorsements
Applicants must invite:
- Employer Head of Department or Line Manager
- Host Head of Department
- Two nominated referees
Consequently, it is recommended to contact all referees early to avoid delays during submission.
Application Deadline
The final deadline to apply for the Royal Society Entrepreneur in Residence Program 2026 is:
19 August 2026
Early submission is strongly recommended to allow sufficient time for reference and endorsement completion.
Why You Should Apply
The Royal Society Entrepreneur in Residence Program is much more than a funded residency. It provides a unique platform where experienced professionals can influence future generations of scientists, engineers, innovators, and entrepreneurs. At the same time, participants expand their own professional networks, gain recognition for their expertise, and contribute to strengthening university-industry partnerships.
If you are passionate about innovation, leadership, and knowledge sharing, this program offers an exceptional opportunity to make a lasting impact.
Conclusion
The Royal Society Entrepreneur in Residence Program 2026 offers a remarkable opportunity for entrepreneurs, industrial scientists, and innovation professionals to collaborate with leading universities in the United Kingdom. With a £25,000 annual award, project support, and access to valuable professional networks, the program enables participants to promote entrepreneurship, support research innovation, and inspire future leaders. If you have experience in science, engineering, or business innovation, this could be your chance to contribute meaningfully to the future of research and industry.
