John G. Bene Fellowship 2026: Up to CA$30,000 for Graduate Research in the Global South
Overview
The International Development Research Centre invites applications for the John G. Bene Fellowship 2026, supported by the Bene Endowment Fund and IDRC funding. The programme provides research funding for graduate students conducting fieldwork on forest restoration, climate resilience, biodiversity, and sustainable food systems in developing countries. The 2026 call emphasizes inclusive, community-led nature-based solutions that connect environmental sustainability with social inclusion, benefiting less privileged communities in the Global South.
Who can apply
This opportunity is open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who are enrolled in a master's or doctoral programme at a Canadian university. Candidates must have completed coursework in their current programme, possess a relevant academic background, and obtain approval of their research proposal from their thesis supervisor. Applicants must also demonstrate affiliation with an institution or organisation in the proposed research country. Doctoral candidates are additionally required to have completed their coursework and passed comprehensive examinations before taking up the award. Applicants from developing countries who do not meet Canadian citizenship or residency requirements are not eligible.
What you get
Up to 10 successful applicants can receive a maximum award of CA$30,000 each. The funding covers eligible field research expenses for a master's thesis or doctoral dissertation for a maximum duration of 12 months. This includes activities such as collecting field data and samples, conducting interviews and surveys, and organising focus groups or workshops. The award functions as a field research grant and cannot be used to pay university tuition fees.
Requirements
Proposed research must take place in one or more eligible developing countries in the Global South, excluding locations subject to Canadian government advisories against all travel. Relevant academic interests include forest management and restoration, climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, sustainable agriculture, gender equality, Indigenous knowledge, natural resource governance, and community-led nature-based solutions. Research proposals aligned with the REVIVE Initiative are particularly welcome. Genomics or genetic modification research is not eligible.
How to apply
Applicants must submit a complete online application through the designated platform. Required materials include an online application form with a proposed budget, a research proposal of 20 to 25 pages written in English or French, official transcripts from the most recently completed degree and current programme, proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residency, a letter confirming host-country institutional affiliation, a letter of supervisor approval, and two online academic recommendations, including one from the supervisor.
Key dates
Applications are open until 30 November 2026.