Deadline: 10-Jun-2026
The Jacobs Foundation is offering up to USD 6 million under the LEVANTE Framework Grant Program to support advanced research on learning and child development. Grants range from USD 250,000 to USD 1,000,000 across multiple categories, with a strong focus on causal research and dynamic learning processes. The program prioritizes global diversity, especially proposals from underrepresented regions.
What is the LEVANTE Framework Grant Program?
The LEVANTE Framework Grant Program is a major research funding initiative designed to support high-quality studies on learning variability and child development.
Core Objectives
- Advance scientific understanding of learning processes
- Promote causal research methodologies
- Strengthen global research collaboration
- Increase representation from diverse regions
This is the third call, expanding both the scope and ambition of the LEVANTE research network.
Key Research Focus Areas
Projects should focus on:
1. Learning and Development Variability
- Differences in how children learn
- Factors influencing developmental outcomes
2. Causal Inference
- Identifying cause-and-effect relationships
- Using rigorous experimental or quasi-experimental methods
3. Dynamic Learning Processes
- Tracking learning over time
- Using dense measurement strategies (frequent, detailed data collection)
4. Global and Inclusive Research
- Studies from underrepresented regions
- Diverse populations and contexts
What Makes This Program Unique?
- Strong emphasis on causal evidence
- Focus on longitudinal and high-frequency data
- Integration into the LEVANTE research network
- Commitment to collaboration and knowledge sharing
Funding Details
Total funding available: Up to USD 6 million
Grant Categories
Regular Projects
- Funding: Up to USD 250,000
- Duration: 2–3 years
- Suitable for: Focused research studies
Large Projects
- Funding: Up to USD 600,000
- Duration: Minimum 4 years
- Suitable for: Comprehensive, multi-phase research
Infrastructure Projects
- Funding: Up to USD 1,000,000
- Duration: Minimum 4 years
- Suitable for:
- Data systems
- Research tools
- Shared infrastructure
Note
Final funding decisions depend on:
- Scientific merit
- Strategic balance of selected projects
Who is Eligible?
Applicant Requirements
Applicants must:
- Hold a PhD or equivalent degree
- Awarded at least 5 years before the deadline
- Be affiliated with:
- A university or
- A research institute
- Conduct high-quality research on learning and development
- Commit to active participation in LEVANTE activities
Institutional Requirements
- Must be part of a recognized research organization
- Capable of supporting long-term research projects
Why This Grant Matters
This program supports cutting-edge research that:
- Improves understanding of how children learn
- Informs education systems and policies
- Promotes evidence-based interventions
- Expands global research inclusion
It contributes to building a more equitable and data-driven approach to education and development.
How to Apply
Step 1: Define Research Idea
- Focus on learning variability or development
- Incorporate causal methods and dynamic measurement
Step 2: Choose Grant Category
- Match your project scope and duration:
- Small → Regular
- Medium → Large
- Systems → Infrastructure
Step 3: Build Research Design
- Include:
- Methodology
- Data collection strategy
- Expected outcomes
Step 4: Ensure Collaboration
- Plan participation in:
- LEVANTE network activities
- Knowledge-sharing initiatives
Step 5: Prepare Proposal
- Highlight:
- Scientific contribution
- Innovation
- Global relevance
Step 6: Submit Application
- Provide all required documents
- Ensure clarity and completeness
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Weak causal research design
- Limited data collection strategy
- Lack of global or inclusive perspective
- Misalignment with LEVANTE objectives
- Insufficient commitment to collaboration
Tips for a Strong Application
- Emphasize rigorous methodology
- Use longitudinal or high-frequency data
- Highlight policy and practical relevance
- Include diverse populations
- Show readiness for network collaboration
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the total funding available?
Up to USD 6 million across all selected projects.
2. What is the maximum funding per project?
Up to USD 1,000,000 for infrastructure projects.
3. Who can apply?
Researchers with a PhD (awarded at least 5 years ago) affiliated with universities or research institutes.
4. What types of research are prioritized?
Studies on learning variability, causal inference, and dynamic learning processes.
5. Are proposals from all countries eligible?
Yes, with strong encouragement for underrepresented regions.
6. Is collaboration required?
Yes. Active participation in the LEVANTE network is expected.
7. What is meant by dense measurement strategies?
Frequent and detailed data collection to track learning over time.
Conclusion
The LEVANTE Framework Grant Program by the Jacobs Foundation is a major opportunity to advance high-impact research in learning and child development. With substantial funding and a strong emphasis on rigor, inclusivity, and collaboration, it supports projects that can shape the future of education research.
For more information, visit Jacobs Foundation.