The Swedish Research Council funds research projects relevant to the fight against poverty and for sustainable development in low income countries. The applicant for a research project grant must be an individual researcher. Research cooperation between scientists in Sweden and scientists in selected low and middle-income countries is encouraged. The maximum amount is SEK 1.5 million per year for a period of four years. The closing date for applications is 18 April 2023. More
biotechnology
Biomimicry Institute — Nature-Inspired Solutions for a Healthy Planet
The Biomimicry Institute seeks applications for the Ray of Hope Prize which celebrates nature-inspired solutions addressing the world’s biggest environmental and sustainability challenges. The challenge is open to innovative ideas from a variety of topics, such as agriculture, water, clean energy, biotechnology, and many more. Up to 10 startups will be selected as finalists to pitch their business idea for US$100 thousand in prize money which can be used to develop their ideas into market-ready products. The competition is open to entrepreneurs and inventors worldwide. The application deadline for the 2023 prize is 28 April 2023. Ray of Hope Prize
OPEC Fund for International Development — Young Professional Development Program
The Young Professional Development Program (YPDP) is a two-year program designed to prepare young professionals from OPEC Fund member countries for a career in global development. The themes include poverty reduction, energy and sustainable development, environment, and other related science and technology fields. YPDP offers training, coaching and mentoring, the opportunity to experience different departments and access to professional networks. To be selected for the program, applicants must be 30 years of age (or younger) and hold a Master’s degree. The deadline for applications is 24 March 2023. More about the YPDP
Inter-American Development Bank — Women in STEM Competition
WeXchange seeks to identify the most innovative women entrepreneurs in STEM from Latin America and the Caribbean and connect them with potential financing opportunities. The competition supports female entrepreneurs in tech (e.g., agritech, biotech, sustainable energy etc.). 15 women-led startups will pitch their business to investors and participate in a micro-acceleration program with workshops, keynotes and one-on-one mentoring sessions. Eligibility extends to startups with a high technological component or where Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics are key pieces. The application deadline is 31 March 2023. Details here
SEED — Starter Workshop for Eco-Enterprises in India
SEED offers valuable resources and professional support to expand entrepreneurial ideas while learning from peers during interactive SEED Starter workshops. SEED Starter workshops consist of a team of 2-5 members that bring in a business idea for addressing environmental, social and economic challenges. Successful alumni are invited to apply for a SEED Grant for up to €1,000 which pays for resources required to establish the new enterprise. Eco-Entrepreneurs from India are invited to apply for the next starter workshop. Applications have to be received by 04 April 2023. Link to current openings
Government of India — Indo-Argentina Joint Research Program
The Governments of India and Argentina invite joint research projects by researchers of both countries. The aim is to encourage scientific and technological cooperation between the two countries. Proposals for joint research in biotechnology and energy transition are eligible. The fund will cover research expenses, exchange of visits for research projects, and workshops. The deadline for the submission of proposals is 30 April 2023. Find the call
Swedish Institute — Scholarships for South Africa
The Swedish Institute (SI) provides citizens of South Africa with fully-funded international scholarships for master’s studies in Sweden. The scholarship aims to develop future global leaders that will contribute to the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and contribute to a positive and sustainable development in South Africa. The scholarship is intended for full-time one-year or two-year master’s programs. SI fully covers tuition fees and makes regular payments of SEK10 thousand to cover living expenses throughout the scholarship. The application portal will close on 28 February 2023. SI Scholarships for South Africans
Expo Live — Innovation Impact Grant Programme
Expo Live supports novel solutions that address pressing environmental and climate challenges. The program offers up to US$50 thousand in funding to support the growth of social enterprises, startups and grassroots projects from around the world that offer creative solutions to pressing challenges. The Grant Program is open to social entrepreneurs, SMEs, non-profit organizations, and government entities. Interested applicants should submit a pre-proposal by 01 March 2023. Innovation Impact Grant
UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network — Youth Solutions Program
The Youth Solutions Program provides young innovators with access to experts, training, and exposure to opportunities. You have an innovative solution that addresses one or more of the SDGs. The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network seeks early-stage startups that have a prototype and are actively testing with users or beneficiaries. Young entrepreneurs will benefit from a 6 week program that helps them to become investment ready. The application deadline is 10 February 2023. More
Horticulture Innovation Lab — Horticulture Research Projects Central America
The Horticulture Innovation Lab seeks technical applications from local organizations to research appropriate technologies for climate smart agriculture for small-sized farms in Honduras and Guatemala. The selected research projects will be funded at US$250 thousand up to US$750 thousand. The Horticulture Innovation Lab seeks research applications led by local organizations that are relevant to smallholder farmers and disadvantaged populations. Applicants can be from academic institutions, government sectors, private entities, or other community based organizations. The closing date for applications is 20 February 2023. Horticulture Innovation Lab Central America