Co-funded by

These awards, jointly funded by Wellbeing of Women and the Scottish Government, are for projects in laboratory, health, and translational research, including explanatory or feasibility studies and systematic reviews, that seek to improve the health of women and girls.

The Scottish Women's Health Fund

The Scottish Government is committed to supporting and increasing high-quality health research in Scotland. As part of this vision, the Women’s Health Plan, first published in August 2021, set out an ambition for all women and girls in Scotland to enjoy the best possible health throughout their lives.

Phase One of the plan focused on creating the conditions for change to improve health outcomes. Building on this foundation, the Scottish Women’s Health Research Fund has been established to drive forward research in this vital area. A final report detailing progress made since 2021 can be found here.

Phase Two of the Women’s Health Plan launched in January 2026 and can be accessed on the Scottish Government website.

Research Areas

Proposals must align with one or more of the following areas of women’s health from our Life Course framework:

• Menstrual & gynaecological health
• Menopause
• Pelvic floor health
• Healthy ageing and long-term conditions, for example cardiovascular health and bone health

We will not accept applications for funding on the following topics:

• Fertility, contraception and abortion care
• Sexual Health
• Pregnancy, birth and beyond
• Gynaecological cancers or any other cancer

Eligibility

• Applications must be led by tenured staff at recognised Scottish Universities or NHS Boards.
• Named academic/clinical collaborators may be based outside Scotland, but the lead applicant must hold a salaried post in Scotland.
• Collaborative applications across disciplines are encouraged, with patient and public involvement at the centre.
• Industry collaborations are welcome, though the grant contract will be with the lead applicant’s institution.

Funding

• Upper award limit: £350,000 total over 1–3 years.
• Applicants may apply for the full amount, but consideration will be given to funding multiple proposals at lower costs.

2026 Call timeline

Call launch: 20 January 2026

Submission deadline: 22 April by 1pm

Application outcome: November 2026

Awards start: from February 2027

How to apply

Download the WoW-SG RG application forms and guidance below. Before applying, please read the grant guidance.

WoW-SG Research Project Grant Application Form 2026
WoW_Research Questions for Non-standard Animals
WoW-SG Research Project Grant Guidance for Applicants 2026

If you have any queries, please contact the Wellbeing of Women research team at [email protected] or call 020 3697 6346.