The British Council is the United Kingdom’s international organization for fostering educational opportunities and strengthening cultural relations across the globe. Established with the vision of creating mutual understanding and trust between the UK and other nations, the Council plays a pivotal role in connecting people, institutions, and ideas. Its mission revolves around promoting collaboration in education, arts, English language learning, and cultural exchange. By supporting academic partnerships and professional development, it contributes to global progress and knowledge sharing.

The British Council’s presence in India is highlighted by its landmark New Delhi building, designed by the eminent architect Charles Correa. Opened in 1993, the building showcases a mural on the façade by renowned artist Howard Hodgkin, symbolising the banyan tree—a powerful representation of India’s heritage and endurance. Additionally, its Charbagh features Stephen Cox’s sculpture, Descent of the Ganges, symbolising the flow of wisdom and culture. Over the decades, the Council has become a bridge for dialogue and cooperation between the UK and India, facilitating opportunities in higher education and research. Through initiatives like grants and partnerships, it continues to inspire innovation, foster global learning, and enable long-lasting cultural and academic collaborations that benefit individuals and institutions worldwide.

This grant programme aims to strengthen and expand research collaborations between institutions in the UK and partner countries. It is designed to either create new research environment links or significantly develop and enhance existing ones, with a long-term vision of sustainability. The initiative encourages joint work between research groups, departments, and institutions, enabling both countries to share knowledge, expertise, and resources for mutual benefit.

The primary focus of the grant is to support capacity building within the partner institution while ensuring sustained academic and research engagement between the two countries. By fostering these collaborations, the programme not only enhances institutional capability but also provides opportunities for long-term international networking, knowledge exchange, and co-development of innovative research initiatives. Each project is expected to contribute towards strengthening the academic ecosystem of the partner country while enriching the UK’s global research partnerships.

Grants are awarded in the range of £25,000 to £40,000, offering substantial support for collaborative activities. The programme envisions outcomes that extend beyond the funded period, encouraging future opportunities for partnership and innovation. Ultimately, it supports the British Council’s mission of creating meaningful global connections through education and research.