Funding opportunity for QAA Members to tackle sector challenges together
QAA Members can now apply for up to £15,000 through the Collaborative Enhancement Projects (CEP) scheme, which funds bold, partnership-led work focused on improving quality assurance and enhancement in UK higher education.
Designed for teams who want to collaborate with peers, CEPs support projects that test new ideas, create practical insights, and help shape quality processes that drive progress. Applications are open until 20 October.
This year’s themes include:
- Transforming quality from compliance to catalyst
- Designing for impact through smart QA processes
- Innovating curriculum, assessment and pedagogy with integrity
- Cross-sector and international collaboration.
Here's why it's worth applying
Advance your career
CEPs are often used to support Fellowship or promotion cases, particularly for colleagues on education-focused pathways. They’re a recognised way to demonstrate leadership in teaching, learning and quality enhancement. They also offer a valuable opportunity to raise your profile, both within your institution and across the wider sector.
Leading the project was a pivotal opportunity for me to step up professionally. It had a transformational effect on my continuing professional development, confidence, and skills, and has given me national recognition.
Professor Mary Davis, Oxford Brookes, Improving Student Learning by Linking Inclusion, Accessibility and Academic Integrity
Make something happen
Got an idea but not the time or resource to pursue it? CEPs offer up to £15,000 per project to help you turn that idea into action with many projects using the funding to support a postgraduate researcher or provide research assistance and staff time.
Build cross-sector connections
Projects bring together teams from multiple institutions. It’s a chance to connect with peers, share practice and expertise and develop sector-wide solutions - particularly valuable for those working in student experience, education, or quality roles.
The collaborative nature of this project has been truly enriching. Sharing expertise across institutions and countries has not only broadened our perspectives but also ensured that our solutions are practical and globally relevant.
Dr Teuta Hazizi, University of Elbasan Aleksander Xhuvani, Advancing Equity and Sustainability Through AI-Enhanced Learning
Impact sector practice
CEPs are designed to make a difference beyond your own institution. They’re a practical way to influence thinking, support enhancement and contribute to long-term improvement across higher education.
Remember to apply by 20 October!
In addition to funding, successful projects gain a platform to share their work across the QAA Membership community and beyond. Teams are asked to produce flexible, engaging outputs - like blogs, podcasts, workshops, or videos - that communicate learning in accessible and creative ways.
Funding can support a wide range of costs, including student collaboration, research, software, events, and knowledge exchange.
Please note: full members can lead a project, while introductory members can only be a partner. The application form and full guidance are available below.