Abstract
Individuals with a science or engineering background who would like to encourage an understanding of science and technology within their own communities may now receive funding from the Royal Society and British Association Millennium awards scheme.
Awards range between £1000 and £10 000 and can cover such activities as training, resources, materials and travel. To be considered for an award, applicants should have an innovative plan and a partnership with a community group (the latter could be a local museum, school, pub, leisure or community centre or even a newspaper, television or radio station). Projects might involve skills training, creating interactive displays, setting up science trails, imaginative ways of conveying the science behind the news, and even possible secondments.
There are four rounds for awards, with closing dates for application forms as follows: 30 June and 31 December (both in 1997) and 30 June and 31 December (both in 1998). More information can be obtained from Jane Mole, British Association, 23 Savile Row, London W1X 2NB (tel: 0171 973 3069 or email: ba.talk.science@mcr1.poptel.org.uk). It should be noted, however, that awards will not be made to: (a) enable the purchase of technology for writing books to popularize science/technology; (b) fund research into the public understanding of science/technology; (c) continue support for projects on a long-term basis; (d) develop curricula or projects in formal education; (e) fund running costs of any establishments.