£60 million to test innovative approaches supporting disabled people and people with long-term health conditions into employment.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has launched the Pathways to Work Innovation Fund to test new approaches that help disabled people and people with long-term health conditions move towards, enter, remain in and progress in employment.
The fund is looking for innovative projects that improve employment opportunities and generate evidence about what works. This could include new employment interventions, digital tools and AI solutions, specialist support services, employer engagement and partnerships bringing together employment, health and skills support.
Projects should demonstrate the potential for successful approaches to be replicated or scaled up more widely.
Up to £60 million is available over two years, including £10 million in the first round and a further £50 million expected in early 2027. There is no minimum or maximum grant amount. Projects must be delivered within 12 months of signing the Grant Funding Agreement.
Applications are welcomed from UK-based charities, voluntary organisations, social enterprises, CICs, businesses, academic institutions, public sector organisations and partnerships.
The fund is intended to test new ideas rather than simply continue or expand existing services. Proposals must demonstrate a significantly different approach or provide meaningful opportunities for learning.
Applicants must submit an application form, budget and delivery plan. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to development sessions, with funding decisions expected from January 2027.
Clearly demonstrate what makes your proposal innovative, how disabled people have helped shape the approach and how you will measure its effectiveness. Innovation does not necessarily mean developing new technology – testing existing approaches with different communities or developing new ways of coordinating support could also be suitable.
Contact: dw******************************@*****ov.uk
Further information and applications:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/pathways-to-work-innovation-fund