The SDG Challenge seeks to support teams to develop transformative, sustainable solutions that will contribute to addressing development challenges under the UN SDGs in countries where Irish Aid works. Solutions address SDG 2: Zero Hunger, “End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture”. Applicants to the program can request up to €300 thousand over 18- months. One or more teams may be provided with follow-on funding from the prize fund of up to €1 million. Eligibility extends to collaborative and equitable partnerships between researchers in Ireland and a partner country. The application deadline is 08 October 2024. SDG Challenge
partnerships/collaboration
UK Government — Darwin Capability & Capacity Grants
The Darwin Initiative invites applications for proposals that deliver effective and successful biodiversity conservation as well as poverty reduction projects. Darwin Initiative Capability & Capacity projects may request between £50 thousand to £200 thousand for projects that focus on developing the capability and capacity of national and local organizations. Projects led by in-territory partners/organizations are encouraged. The deadline to apply is 21 October 2024. Capability & Capacity Grants
Government of Canada — Biodiversity Financing
The International Biodiversity Program by halting and reversing biodiversity loss in collaboration with women and Indigenous Peoples. The program focuses on reversing biodiversity loss by addressing its direct drivers beyond climate change—namely, land- and sea-use change, the overexploitation of species, invasive alien species, pollution, and agriculture. Interested applicants can apply for funding through an unsolicited proposal. Proposals are accepted on a rolling basis. More information
Aquapreneur Innovation Initiative — Water Pollution Challenge
The Aquapreneur Innovation Initiative aims to find innovative solutions to conserve and restore freshwater ecosystems. Aquapreneur seeks high-potential solutions to prevent water pollution and reduce the environmental impacts of contaminated water. Solutions could include advanced filtration, the elimination of wastewater discharges, decision support systems to provide accurate and accessible data for measuring options for both the public and industries, as well as household water testing and filtration. Up to 10 innovators will each be eligible to receive CHF 175 thousand in co-financing. The challenge is open for submissions until 12 August 2024. Tackling Water Pollution Challenge
UK Royal Society — International Exchanges 2024
The Royal Society’s International Exchanges Scheme makes grants to scientists based in the UK who seek new international collaborations. The scheme covers all areas of life and physical sciences, except clinical medicine. Applicants may request up to £12 thousand for travel to/from all countries outside the UK. The standard program is open for applications and will close on 05 June 2024. International Exchanges
Ministry of Economy and Planning, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia — Regenerative Blue Economy Challenge
The Regenerative Blue Economy Challenge calls for solutions to reduce marine pollution and promote ecosystem protection, restoration, and rewilding. Winners will benefit from exclusive networking opportunities, targeted support, visibility, and the chance to share part of the CHF 300 thousand prize. The application deadline is 08 June 2024. Details
ETH Zurich — Consolidation Grants
ETH Consolidation Grants provide grants up to CHF50 thousand to strengthen existing research collaborations. Consolidation Grants aim to encourage more advanced, solid projects between Switzerland and East Asia or the Southeast Asia region. The main applicant has to be a postdoctoral researcher, senior scientist, or professor of a Swiss federal and cantonal university. Applications are open until 15 June 2024. ETH Consolidation Grants
UK Royal Society — International Collaboration Awards
The International Collaboration Awards provide funding to enable research leaders in the UK to develop research collaborations with international partners. The grants are open to newly independent researchers ready to lead an international research program. Applications can apply to the Royal Society for up to £225 thousand over three years. ODA-eligible applications which include Least Developed Countries can apply for additional funding. The application deadline is 25 June 2024. International Collaboration Awards
SVG Ventures — Global Accelerator for Agrifood Tech Startups
Silicon Valley Global Ventures is an investment, technology, and advisory firm that invests in companies that go through their accelerator program. The THRIVE Global Impact Challenge seeks innovative startups advancing a more sustainable future for agriculture. Selected companies benefit from an accelerator program that provides investment, mentorship, and direct access to agriculture companies and farmers. The application deadline is 12 July 2024. THRIVE Global Impact Challenge
African Development Bank — Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa
The Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA) provides catalytic finance to unlock private-sector investments in renewable energy. SEFA offers technical assistance and concessional finance instruments. Funding requests must be aligned with three strategic priorities: (1) Green Baseload; (2) Green Mini-Grids; and (3) Energy Efficiency. Technical assistance grants are available to public and private sector entities. Applications can be submitted anytime. Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa