Investing in the future of Fire Engineering

At Ashton Fire, we believe that advancing fire engineering means looking forward – supporting innovation, new thinking, and collaboration across our industry.

The Ashton Fire Research Fund is our annual initiative to support practical, application-focused research that addresses the evolving challenges of fire safety.

We’re proud to fund projects that bridge the gap between theory and real-world application, helping to strengthen collective understanding and technical excellence across the fire engineering community.

Purpose

We’re committed to advancing the science and practice of fire engineering. Through this fund, we aim to:

  • Support research that delivers practical, tangible outcomes in fire engineering and building design.
  • Encourage collaboration between academia and industry.
  • Stimulate fresh thinking that tackles emerging safety challenges.

Focus Areas

We welcome proposals that deliver practical impact in fire safety, including:

  • Guidance for fire engineers and designers
  • Evacuation and egress for mobility-impaired occupants
  • Electric vehicles, battery fires, and car park design
  • Automation and digital tools in fire engineering

Other emerging topics and fresh approaches are encouraged.

Funding

Ashton Fire provides up to £24,000 in total funding each year to support research that advances fire engineering. Individual projects can receive up to £12,000 (ex. VAT), either as full or partial funding depending on project size and needs.

Funding can be used for eligible costs such as staff time, equipment, software, consumables and specialist instruments.

Eligibility

The fund is open to:

  • Individuals and research teams
  • Universities and research institutes
  • Companies, consultancies, and non-profit organisations

Consortium applications are also welcome – one organisation should act as the lead applicant.

Application Information

Deadlines

Applications are reviewed annually.

  • Submit by the 2nd of February to be considered for that year’s funding.
  • Successful applicants will be notified by the end of March.

Projects are expected to be completed within 12 months, though extensions up to 24 months may be considered.

How to Apply

Applicants should submit a short proposal (max 10 A4 pages) including:

  • Project summary, aims, and budget
  • Methodology and deliverables
  • Team CVs

Submit your proposal to: researchfund@ashtonfire.com