1001 CRITICAL DAYS:
RESEARCH GRANTS
We partner with researchers who share our passion for improving outcomes for babies during their 1,001 critical days.
RESEARCH FUNDING
We fund pioneering research around the world. Our focus is on two priority areas: evidence-based approaches to improving outcomes for babies during the 1001 critical days, and analysis that shows the impact of supporting families through universal interventions delivered in integrated ‘one-stop shop’ environments.
Our Evaluation Partner for Charity Grants
The 1001 Critical Days Foundation has appointed Ecorys UK as its independent evaluation partner for a five-year term beginning in January 2026. The appointment follows an open and competitive tender that attracted many high-quality applications from organisations across the UK and internationally.
The partnership will strengthen the Foundation’s ability to demonstrate the global impact of its multi-year charity grants, which support frontline organisations improving outcomes for babies and their families in the 1,001 critical days of life.
DELIVERING THE BEST OUTCOMES FOR BABIES
We’re committed to funding research that delivers the greatest impact for babies. We know that many services across the country are already achieving exceptional results and we want to unlock the data behind their success.
By combining rigorous research with real-world evidence, we’re shining a light on what works best for babies and ensuring that parents and carers can give their baby the best start in life.
A PLATFORM FOR IMPACT
With deep expertise in supporting babies and families, and a strong global voice in research and advocacy, we can provide you with a powerful platform for impact and dissemination.
Together, we can place your research about the 1001 critical days at the centre of public and policy conversations - building healthier communities and stronger societies for generations to come.
SHAPE OUR RESEARCH FUNDING AGENDA
Decades of research has confirmed that the first 1001 days are a critical period for development. From brain development to shaping our immune system and stress response system – our experiences in the earliest years of life lay the foundations for our future health and happiness.
But many unanswered questions remain. That’s why we’re seeking bold ideas to help identify the next critical research questions. We want to hear from professionals, academics, and policymakers to co-create an ambitious, international research agenda - one that turns insight into impact and delivers practical solutions to help all parents give their baby the best start in life.
Once our research priorities are defined, we will open funding opportunities to researchers around the world.
TURNING RESEARCH INTO PRACTICE
The International Journal of Birth and Parent Education translates the latest research about pregnancy, birth, and early parenting into practice.
We are delighted to share that from September 2025, the International Journal of Birth and Parent Education will be joining the 1001 Critical Days Foundation.
APPLY FOR A RESEARCH GRANT
We are currently gathering your ideas on the research we should fund. Your input will help shape our research funding agenda. Soon, we’ll publish open calls for applications to explore specific research questions.