Lessons from research and innovation: maintaining connections when funding is scarce

The intermittent nature and scarcity of funding is a major barrier for many working on global challenges. While funders are critical to finding and implementing solutions, there are steps that community members can take to keep working relationships alive in the interim. This guide summarises reflections from Frontiers participants, sharing tips they use to maintain and foster connections during times of funding scarcity.

 

Principles

 

 

• It may appear that projects cannot advance without funding. However, there are ways to continue relationships with collaborators. Networking events, for instance, can be a good way to check in on people you have worked with in the past as well as meet new potential project partners.
• Finding low-cost ways to continue projects requires flexibility and open-mindedness. For instance, building a product prototype at home using resources on hand or using online communication tools to minimise the on-site staff requirements can keep momentum going.
• The perspectives of your collaborators must be always kept in mind. For example, they may be living in a different time zone or cultural context, so ensure you are flexible to their needs.
• Consistency is important to maintain relationships, but at the same time, try to avoid ‘Zoom fatigue’ by varying modes of communication.
• Participants identified enthusiasm, professionalism, commitment, and accountability were identified as significant qualities that they look for in collaborators. These elements set a solid foundation for long-term project relationships.

 

Tools and tips

• Explore different sources of funding, for example funding to support visiting PhDs via the Turing Scheme in the UK, FCDO Funds, or Royal Society Research Exchanges.
• Be clear from the outset about funding requirements and use simulations to understand how much funding is required to achieve the solution.

• Recycle budgets from similar projects for multiple uses if funding requirements allow.
• Seek opportunities to keep growing your network. For instance, you could apply to become part of a university’s supervisory team for master’s or undergraduate research projects. Events such as the Frontiers symposia also help build new connections.
• Use online tools to maintain relationships with collaborators. Participants highlighted Telegram, Zoom and WhatsApp as useful tools.
• Identify tangible outputs to work towards, such as academic paper publication or conference presentations, to help maintain momentum.