UNESCO Science for Crisis Response & Solutions Research Continuity Grants for Africa 2026 (up to $2,000)

Overview

The UNESCO Science for Crisis Response and Solutions Research Continuity Grants for Africa 2026 is a small-grants initiative intended to support the continuity of natural-science research that has been interrupted by conflict, natural hazards, or biological hazards. This first pilot call provides six institutional grants to help researchers resume or complete clearly defined parts of interrupted work, preserve valuable data and scientific capacity, and strengthen research system resilience in crisis-affected settings.

Who can apply

This opportunity is open to African nationals who are based at a recognized university or research institute in an African country and hold at least a Master's degree or an equivalent recognized research qualification in a relevant field. Applicants must conduct natural-science research or interdisciplinary research with a substantial natural-science component. Furthermore, applicants must demonstrate that their research was interrupted by an armed conflict, natural hazard, or biological hazard within the previous three years, or that it continues to be materially affected by those consequences. Proposed activities must be completable within six months and within the grant ceiling. Applicants must provide a signed support letter from an authorized host institution representative and confirm that the same costs are not being funded elsewhere. Women scientists, researchers under the age of 40, and researchers from least developed countries and Small Island Developing States in Africa are particularly encouraged to apply.

What you get

The program provides six institutional grants of up to USD 2,000 each. Funding supports focused activities directly linked to the interrupted research, which include consumables and small research supplies, local fieldwork and research travel, data collection, processing, or secure storage, minor equipment repair or essential short-term access to equipment or facilities, and laboratory, publication, or open-access costs. The funding does not cover salary replacement, honoraria, personal allowances, international relocation, long-term subsistence, major equipment, construction, institutional overheads, or unrelated activities.

How to apply

Applicants must complete and sign the application form in either English or French. The submission must include a curriculum vitae, proof of the highest relevant qualification, a signed institutional support letter, and any necessary ethics, research, or fieldwork authorizations required for the proposed activities. All application materials are submitted online.

Key dates

The application deadline is November 15, 2026. Proposed activities must be completed within six months.