From solar cars to oyster reefs: Reece Foundation backs 12 North East projects

9th November 2026

  • Reece Foundation is funding 12 organisations to bring STEM to life and develop practical skills for people of all ages.
  •  From solar-powered cars and plastic recycling to oyster reef restoration, the grants connect hands-on learning with real-world opportunities.
  • Organisations developing skills, inspiring young people or creating practical learning opportunities are encouraged to apply by 23 November 2026.

Twelve organisations across the North East will receive Reece Foundation funding for projects that bring STEM subjects to life, develop practical skills and create opportunities for people of all ages.

The latest grants will support student-led solar car racing, scientific research in schools, oyster reef restoration and plastic recycling, as well as a new STEM hub for Air Cadets.

The funding reflects our commitment to science, technology, engineering and manufacturing, helping people build the knowledge, confidence and practical skills to take advantage of future opportunities.

Anne Reece, Chair of Reece Foundation, said:

“One of the things that really makes us proud is the sheer breadth of projects we are able to support here in the North East. From inspiring young people through science and engineering to developing practical skills, supporting environmental restoration and protecting our region’s heritage, each project offers an opportunity to make a positive difference.

“We believe it is important to give people, particularly young people, the chance to experience science, technology, engineering and manufacturing in practical and engaging ways. Whether that’s building a solar-powered car, exploring river ecosystems, learning to repair a bike or experimenting with robotics, these experiences can spark an interest that develops into a lifelong passion or even a future career.

“By supporting organisations that are making these opportunities happen in communities across the North East, we hope to help nurture the next generation of talent, ideas and innovation.”

The latest projects to receive funding include:

  • Durham University Solar Car – Student Electric Motorsport Team: Funding will support STEM outreach and competition costs as the team prepares for the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge. Students will apply their engineering knowledge to designing, building and racing a solar-powered vehicle while inspiring others to explore STEM.
  • Great Park Academy – Future Makers: Plastic to Product: A small-scale recycling facility will enable students to turn waste plastic into sheet materials for design and technology projects. The initiative combines practical engineering and creative problem-solving with learning about recycling and the circular economy.
  • Greenpower – 2027 North East Event: Continued support will help deliver the Greenpower Goblins race day at Gateshead Stadium. Young people will put science, design and teamwork into practice by building and racing electric cars.
  • Groundwork North East & Cumbria – Oyster Reefs and Roots: Funding will support the Tyne Oyster Engineering and STEM programme, combining oyster restoration with education. Through environmental science, engineering and marine conservation, people will learn how oyster reefs contribute to healthy marine ecosystems and what restoring them involves.
  • Newcastle Eagles Foundation – STEM: The Science of Basketball 2026–27: Continued funding will support a programme that introduces primary school children to STEM through basketball. Pupils will explore the science behind movement, speed, distance and performance through engaging, accessible activities.
  • Northumberland & Newcastle Society – Making Northumberland and Newcastle a Better Place: Funding will support the Society’s work to protect and celebrate local heritage, culture and landscape. It will help sustain the annual lecture programme, broaden the magazine’s audience and maintain the Society’s role as a consultee on local planning matters, protecting the area’s distinctive character for future generations.
  • Physics Partners – North East Physics Programme: Building on the initial programme, continued support will establish two additional physics hubs and bring the network to 20 schools. More teachers and pupils will be able to access engaging physics education and develop their interest in the subject.
  • Recyke Y’Bike – Young Bike Mechanic Courses and Adult Volunteering: Funding towards a specialist trainer will help young people and adult volunteers learn bike repair, maintenance and refurbishment. The hands-on experience will build confidence and develop practical mechanical and STEM skills with real-world applications.
  • Research Inspired CIC – NE Orbyts Research with Schools: The programme will expand its work connecting school students with university researchers for hands-on scientific research. Increased capacity will give more young people the chance to experience discovery, develop research skills and explore opportunities in further and higher education.
  • The Royal Institution – Science in Schools Shows and STEM Masterclasses: Schools across the North East will host engaging science shows, followed by hands-on STEM masterclasses for a targeted group of pupils. The sessions will help young people explore scientific ideas in greater depth and follow their curiosity.
  • Squadron Air Cadets – Launching the 36 (Hetton-le-Hole) STEM Hub: A new state-of-the-art STEM hub will give cadets opportunities to develop practical, industry-relevant skills in robotics, 3D printing and electronics. Young people will be able to experiment, build and innovate while gaining technical experience and confidence.
  • Wear Rivers Trust – Wear Warriors Award: Funding will extend nature-based STEM learning into disadvantaged communities across the Wear catchment. Pupils will investigate local river health through practical fieldwork, collecting and applying scientific evidence to understand their environment and why protecting it matters.

 

Apply for the next round of grants
Applications are now open for the next round of Reece Foundation grants.

Organisations with projects that align with the Foundation’s funding priorities are encouraged to apply.

The application deadline is 23 November 2026.

The Foundation welcomes applications from organisations working in engineering, manufacturing, science, technology or the environment, particularly those developing skills, inspiring young people or creating practical learning opportunities.

Find out more about the Reece Foundation and how to apply.

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