Announcing the Newest Round of the Research Fund

by , Wikimedia Foundation
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The Wikimedia Foundation is excited to announce the launch of the 2025 Wikimedia Research Fund, inviting proposals from researchers aiming to advance free knowledge through Wikimedia projects. 

The fund is open to individuals, groups, or organizations. Applicants should be established Wikimedia researchers or established researchers aiming to contribute to Wikimedia research. The fund supports projects across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, computer science, engineering, education, and law. 

We encourage researchers to collaborate with local Wikimedia affiliates and community members, whose on-the-ground experience can provide valuable insights and strengthen the impact of research initiatives. As in previous years, the Wikimedia community will be invited to participate in the review of grant proposals, helping ensure projects are relevant and effective. 

Building upon insights from previous funding cycles, this year’s fund introduces significant enhancements to better support the research community.

Key Updates for 2025

  • Diverse Proposal Categories: The fund now accommodates three distinct types of proposals:
    • Research Proposals: These proposals focus on research projects that can be completed within a 12-month period. They aim to advance knowledge and understanding of Wikimedia projects through empirical studies, theoretical analyses, or methodological innovations. 
    • Extended Research Proposals: Recognizing that some research endeavors require longer timelines, the fund now accepts extended research proposals. Researchers can apply for projects spanning up to two years, with the possibility of renewal for a third year. This change acknowledges the depth and scope of research endeavors that cannot be confined to a single year.
    • Event and Community-Building Proposals: This category supports initiatives aimed at fostering community engagement and organizing events that promote research within the Wikimedia ecosystem. Examples include workshops, conferences, or collaborative projects that bring together researchers and community members. 
  • Increased Funding Limits: Aligned with the extended timelines, applicants can now request higher funding amounts to adequately support comprehensive research activities. This adjustment ensures that projects have the necessary resources to achieve their objectives.
  • Streamlined Review Process: To expedite funding decisions, the proposal review process has been refined from two stages to one, allowing for more efficient evaluations.
  • Clarified Funding Criteria: The fund’s guidelines have been updated to clearly outline the types of projects that are eligible for support, ensuring applicants have a precise understanding of funding priorities.

Application Details:

  • Proposal Submission Deadline: April 16, 2025.
  • Project Duration: Up to 12 months for Research and Event proposals; up to 24 months for Extended Research proposals.
  • Funding Range: Minimum request of $2,000. Maximum of $50,000 for Research and Event proposals, and up to $150,000 for Extended Research proposals (with a maximum of $75,000 per year).

Prospective applicants are encouraged to thoroughly review the fund’s guidelines and prepare their proposals accordingly. Detailed information and application materials are available on the Wikimedia Research Fund page.

Upcoming Information Session

An open call will be held to address questions about the fund and its recent changes:

This session offers an opportunity for potential applicants to seek clarifications and engage directly with the fund’s organizing committee.

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