Applications open for RCN Foundation Quality Improvement Project

Applications are now open for the RCN Foundation Quality Improvement Project, meaning funding opportunities are available for nursing and midwifery-led QI projects that seek to improve patient care and safety. 

The RCN Foundation Quality Improvement Project also helps to address health inequalities and improve outcomes for nurses and midwives’ wellbeing.  

The request for grant-making activities in QI was driven by nurses, midwives and healthcare support workers wanting to carry out small step changes in their workplace to reach maximum impact. 

Additionally, carrying out QI projects can contribute towards continuing professional development (CPD) activity for an individual who may be undertaking further education. 

The RCN Foundation is seeking to fund up to eight QI projects across the UK on an annual basis, with grants of up to £2,500 available. 

To be eligible for the QI grants programme, you must be a registered nurse, registered midwife, registered nursing associate, health and support care worker or maternity assistant. 

Please note, this is not open to pre-registration nursing and midwifery students. You do not need to be a member of the RCN to apply.  

The majority of applications are expected to be for projects lasting up to 12 months, but applications that are for longer can be accpeted too. Applications from areas of high health inequalities will be prioritised. 

In 2025, eight projects across the UK were funded. Read more about the projects that received funding here. 

To apply for the RCN Foundation Quality Improvement Project, click here. Please submit applications to grants@rcnfoundation.org.uk. 

The deadline to apply is 5pm on Monday, April 6. Please note: the grant may close early if a a high volume of applications are submitted. All applications will be reviewed after the closing date.