Research to Reward Toolkit

Research to Reward is an inclusive pitch-style competition and funding/training scheme for female and non-binary researchers at the University of Bristol, developed in 2024/25. The programme has been successful in driving engagement between female academics and the research commercialisation team and improving research culture at the University of Bristol. Core materials developed for Research to Reward are available to download by professional services staff at other Universities and Research Institutes who wish to develop a similar programme in their organisations.

The programme empowers extraordinary researchers to explore entrepreneurship opportunities and discover new ways of delivering impact. Research to Reward focuses on advancing projects led by female researchers since female researchers are underrepresented in entrepreneurship and commercialisation around the UK and globally.

The programme provides several high value networking opportunities, including between the cohort of academics as well as bringing together innovation ecosystem professionals, researchers, and technology enthusiasts interested in gaining insight into remarkable translational research.

^{Please use these materials as a guide and template for running your own inclusive funding and training scheme. Bear in mind that these materials were developed for the first iteration of Research to Reward, and are therefore may benefit from additional refinement before broader implementation..}

^{Please note that the name "Research to Reward" and associated branding are not licensed in this package.}