Futures 2020

2026-07-22

FUTUREFUTURES 2020 is an ambitious and dynamic programme of events designed to deliver the EU Commission's objectives. A consortium of five universities from across the South West UK have teamed up with world-class venues and heritage attractions to deliver the largest celebration of contemporary research in the region, both in terms of audiences and participating researchers. FUTURES 2020 will reach out to citizens of the large cities of Bristol, Bath, Exeter and Plymouth as well as rural areas of Wiltshire, Somerset and Cornwall. Events will provide direct contact with researchers and showcase the results of contemporary research and its impact on people’s daily lives. We are mounting an ambitions awareness raising campaign, aiming to reach a million people through a variety of methods. We are utilising all our partners' expertise and networks to make this a memorable European Researchers' Night in the last year of H2020. A programme of 23 activities will involve over 300 researchers directly interacting with audiences in innovative and engaging formats. Underpinned by principles of inspiration, invention, inclusivity, fun, learning, and discovery the events will demystify research and innovation, showing their value for individuals and societies locally and globally with celebratory EU Corners at each flagship venue. We have a strong emphasis on engaging school children and families to increase awareness of careers in research and to break stereotypes about researchers. We are also tailoring activities for disadvantaged groups who may not normally have access to research or researchers. Sound management by experienced partners, who have a track record of successful multi-partner projects, with a carefully constructed budget, clarity of roles, significant in-kind contribution from all partners, and an independently conducted evaluation using a mixed methods approach, will ensure that the project is successful in reaching its objectives and good value for money.

United Kingdom (UK)

2026-02-15