Apply for funding
Our Catalyst Grants are intended for researchers to test new ideas, develop proof-of-concept studies or gather data that could help you attract further investment from other sources.
We want to make sure the voices of people affected by cardiomyopathy are at the heart of research. As such we are committed to funding projects that directly address the research priorities identified through our Priority Setting Partnership.
We strongly encourage Patient and Public Involvement (PPI), and all applications will be assessed by both peer reviewers and people affected by cardiomyopathy.
Email research@cardiomyopathy.org to request an application form.
Duration and value
The duration of a Catalyst Grant is up to a maximum 24 months. The maximum value is £25,000. There is no fixed minimum value for our Catalyst Grants, and we encourage applications for any amount up to the maximum. Funds can cover salary costs, research expenses and consumables.
Eligibility
- Applications must align with Cardiomyopathy UK’s strategy and research priorities
- Catalyst Grants are open to any UK-based researcher working at a UK university, research institution or NHS trust
- Principal applicants should hold employment contracts that extend beyond the period of the grant
- No more than one application can be submitted by a Principal Investigator per application round
- We welcome applications from researchers working across all fields of cardiomyopathy research, including allied healthcare professionals
We actively encourage people from all sections of the community to apply for grants, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, age, disability, sexual orientation, or religion.
Expert review process
In line with Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC) principles, all applications will be reviewed by a minimum of two peer and two expert by experience reviewers. Funding recommendations will be made by our Research Grants Committee:
- Chair - Professor Simon Ray, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
- Professor Theresa McDonagh, King's College London
- Sandra Miller, expert by experience
- Professor Lis Neubeck, Edinburgh Napier University
- Professor Ruth Newbury-Ecob, University Hospitals Bristol
- Professor Delvac Oceandy, University of Manchester
- Karen Stritch, expert by experience
Timeline
- Applications open - Wednesday 15 April 2026
- Deadline for applications - midday on Wednesday 8 July 2025
- Expert review - July-September 2026
- Research Grants Committee meeting - October 2026
- Trustee decision and applicants notified - November 2026
FAQs
Email research@cardiomyopathy.org to request an application form.
In 2025 we received 11 applications and awarded two Catalyst Grants.
It is not a requirement to attach letters of support with your application. Please feel free to include one or more if you feel they are relevant and will strengthen your application.
If you have any questions about our Catalyst Grants or the application process, please contact: research@cardiomyopathy.org