Making Connections Programme

Making Connections is Weizmann UK's flagship collaborative science programme, established in 2008 to spark and strengthen research partnerships between the Weizmann Institute and UK scientists. Launched at a time of growing concern around academic boycotts of Israel, the programme set out not only to deepen scientific ties, but to ensure that open, curiosity-driven research could continue to thrive across borders.  The programme currently provides grants of $100k over 2 years. As of 2025, it has funded 78 collaborations involving 75 Weizmann researchers and 89 UK researchers across a wide range of scientific disciplines. 

Making Connections is valued for its rare flexibility and its targeted seed funding, which enables scientists to pursue early-stage ideas that larger funders often overlook. Researchers describe it as a catalyst -  a programme that encourages risk-taking, generates new lines of inquiry, and helps build the long-term, trusting partnerships that lead to major discoveries. Many projects have gone on to secure major follow-on funding, produce high-impact publications, and expand into wider collaborations.

Powered entirely by philanthropic support, Making Connections continues to be a vital force in strengthening scientific links between the UK and Israel, helping researchers on both sides to work together, share expertise, and accelerate discoveries that benefit us all.