DARE UK (Data and Analytics Research Environments UK) is inviting applications for a new funding opportunity to support the development of next-generation capabilities for federated Trusted Research Environments (TREs).
This initiative aims to fund innovative, early-stage projects that will prototype new components, services, and tools to support a secure, interoperable national infrastructure for sensitive data research in the UK. Up to £390,000 (fEC) is available per project, with UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) funding 80% of the cost. Projects will run for 12 months, from September 2025 to September 2026.
What we’re looking for
DARE UK’s mission is to ensure that researchers can securely access and use diverse sensitive datasets at speed, scale, and efficiency—revolutionising the UK’s research productivity and accelerating public benefit. We are seeking innovative applications that address challenges and needs in the TRE landscape beyond those already identified in the DARE UK Transformational Programme.
We will particularly welcome proposals that:
- Advance core technical capabilities for federated TREs, such as federated machine learning, automatic data linkage, and secure software management
- Explore novel applications of privacy-enhancing technologies like homomorphic encryption and differential privacy
- Incorporate large-scale reference and synthetic datasets into secure research settings
- Propose innovative alternatives that challenge current assumptions around TRE federation
Full details of the areas of innovation we’re seeking applications for are available on the UKRI website. Applicants are encouraged to align their proposals with the DARE UK vision and Federated Architecture Blueprint but are also welcome to propose radically new approaches that demonstrate potential for widespread adoption and scalability.
Who can apply?
This opportunity is open to researchers across all disciplines and UKRI research council remits. Project leads must be based at UK organisations eligible for UKRI funding (more information about eligible organisations is available on the UKRI website). Applications that support early career researchers through mentorship and development are encouraged.
While international researchers cannot lead projects, they may be included as project co-leads where their contribution adds significant intellectual value. All applicants are expected to demonstrate how they will ensure equality, diversity, and inclusion in their team and working practices.
Funding scope and details
Each funded project may request up to £390,000 (funded at 80% of fEC), with a total funding envelope of £2.25 million available. Projects should include:
- Salary contributions for key personnel
- Support for research and technical staff
- Costs for cloud computing, travel, and engagement
- Knowledge mobilisation activities
- Public involvement and engagement (PIE)
- Open-source software development and data sharing
Applicants must also integrate workstreams covering legal, ethical and governance considerations and be prepared to demonstrate compliance with UKRI’s Trusted Research and Innovation (TR&I) principles.
Public Involvement and Engagement (PIE)
All applications must include a comprehensive and integrated plan for involving members of the public in the design and delivery of the project. This includes appointing a dedicated PIE lead, ensuring diverse representation, building robust feedback mechanisms, and clearly outlining how public input will shape project outcomes. Adherence to the DARE UK PIE Guidelines is mandatory.
How to apply
If you’re passionate about driving innovation in secure data research and believe your idea can help transform the UK’s TRE ecosystem, we want to hear from you! For full details on eligibility, funding scope, and how to apply, click the button below. The deadline for applications is Thursday, 5 June 2025 (4:00 pm UK time).
Applicant webinar
Join us on Thursday, 1 May 2025, from 14:00 to 15:00 (BST) to learn more about the funding opportunity and get answers to any questions to help you prepare your application.
