Brain Awareness Week Impact Survey

Research Consulting was commissioned by International Brain Research Organization (IBRO) to evaluate the IBRO and Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS) funding programs for events delivered as part of Brain Awareness Week (BAW), the world’s largest public engagement campaign focused on brain science. Working with IBRO, FENS, and the Dana Foundation, the evaluation examined how funding is used, the reach and impact of events across diverse global settings, and opportunities to strengthen the program ahead of BAW 2026.

Our approach included co-designing, piloting and analysing a survey for all individuals who had applied for BAW funding between 2021 and 2025. The survey captured responses from 297 individuals worldwide, representing both funded and unfunded organisers who collectively delivered more than 300 events between 2021–2025. Over half of respondents were based in low and middle income countries (LMICs), offering rich insight into how BAW functions in varied resource contexts. Analysis combined quantitative segmentation by region and LMIC status with thematic analysis of open-ended responses and a findings validation workshop.

The findings demonstrated widespread and sustained engagement, with application numbers more than doubling over five years, and 99% of funded respondents stated their intention to participate again. BAW funding was shown to enable hands on, interactive neuroscience outreach in schools, universities, and community settings, often reaching underserved groups. Organisers reported significant impacts on learning, careers, public engagement, and community health, with many describing longer term benefits such as strengthened partnerships, recurring events, and increased pathways into neuroscience. BAW funding was found to be particularly transformative in low-resource settings, where it may be the only available source of neuroscience outreach funding.

The evaluation identified opportunities to further strengthen BAW moving forward, including developing shared resources and training for organisers, fostering a global BAW community of practice, and exploring enhanced funding options to extend reach in underserved regions.

The evaluation provided IBRO and FENS with clear evidence of BAW’s global value and practical guidance to support its continued growth, equity, and impact.