Deadline: 31-Jul-2025
The Structural Transformation and Economic Growth (STEG) initiative is accepting applications for its first round of Institutional Partner Grants (IPGs). These grants aim to support institutions in enhancing their research departments and PhD programmes by incorporating STEG themes more deeply into their work.
IPGs are intended to create long-term, institutional-level change rather than funding individual research projects. They share the same research themes and methodologies as STEG’s Larger Research Grants (LRGs) and Small Research Grants (SRGs), but they focus on broader institutional impact. These partnerships are designed to expand the reach of STEG research and build a stronger, more interconnected STEG community.
Institutions can apply for grants of up to £75,000 for one year, with the option to renew. The funding may be used for a wide range of activities related to STEG’s research agenda. Eligible uses include support for graduate students, internal travel grants, STEG-themed workshops or conferences, data-related expenses, and partial funding of postdoctoral researchers or research staff.
Applications are welcome from institutions globally, with a strong emphasis on those based in lower-income countries, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. Institutions that demonstrate a significant interest in STEG themes and the ability to make a meaningful impact are especially encouraged to apply.
While academic institutions are the primary target for IPGs, applications from think tanks or NGOs may be considered if they can justify the relevance of their proposed work to STEG themes and show the potential for producing quality research outputs. However, due to current political sanctions, applications from Russian institutions cannot be accepted.
At the full proposal stage, applicants must submit several key documents. These include a declaration of eligibility confirming the institution is financially and legally sound and has no legal issues related to fraud or corruption. A legal representative form and legal status documentation are also required, along with a finance identification form, a recent bank statement, and certified annual accounts.
All submitted documents may be reviewed by external advisors for verification. Institutions applying for an IPG automatically consent to this review process by submitting their application.
Applications will be evaluated based on alignment with STEG’s research priorities, the quality and feasibility of proposed activities, potential for policy engagement or impact, and cost-effectiveness. Reviewers will also consider the expected number and quality of research outputs, the institution’s capacity-building potential, and how well it includes underrepresented researchers, including those from the global south. The involvement of faculty and PhD students will also be considered during the evaluation.
For more information, visit STEG.
