Deadline: 31-Jan-2026
The Maldives National University has launched the NRF-ERG 2025-001, offering up to MVR 500,000 per project for research aligned with national priorities. Open to all researchers, the grant supports projects in governance, safety, well-being, economic sustainability, digital innovation, and the green agenda, with a maximum duration of 1.5 years. Applications close on 31 January 2026.
National Research Fund – Emerging Research Grants (NRF-ERG)
Purpose of the Grant
The NRF-ERG aims to promote high-impact research that addresses key national challenges in the Maldives. The program encourages innovative proposals that contribute to policy development, sustainable practices, and knowledge generation in critical sectors.
Priority Research Areas
Applicants must align their proposals with one or more of the four strategic pillars:
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Governance, Safety, and Well-being: Public sector reforms, disaster risk management, health equity, and community safety.
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Economic Development and Sustainability: Economic diversification, sustainable tourism, and long-term development planning.
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Digital Transformation and Innovation: Digital governance, e-services, and technology-driven solutions.
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Green Agenda: Renewable energy, waste management, climate change adaptation, and environmental sustainability.
Who is Eligible?
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Open to all researchers, including academics, practitioners, and independent researchers.
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Proposals must demonstrate relevance to the Maldives’ national development priorities.
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Individual or collaborative research projects are eligible.
Funding and Duration
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Maximum funding per project: MVR 500,000
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Maximum project duration: 1.5 years
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Funds can be used for research-related costs including materials, fieldwork, personnel, and operational expenses aligned with the project objectives.
How to Apply / Submission Process
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Obtain the official application form and templates from the Research Management Office of Maldives National University.
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Prepare a research proposal that clearly aligns with one of the four priority pillars.
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Submit the completed application by 31 January 2026 through the official channels.
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Ensure all supporting documents, budgets, and timelines are included as per the application guidelines.
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Successful applicants will be notified by 28 February 2026.
Evaluation Criteria
Applications will be assessed based on:
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Alignment with national priorities
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Innovation and originality of the research
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Feasibility and clarity of methodology
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Potential impact on policy, society, or environment
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Capacity and expertise of the applicant(s)
Common Mistakes / Tips
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Do not submit proposals outside the priority pillars; misaligned applications will be rejected.
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Follow the official templates strictly; incomplete applications may be disqualified.
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Ensure clarity in budget and timeline, as vague or unrealistic plans reduce the chance of success.
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Demonstrate practical impact rather than purely theoretical research.
FAQ
1. Who can apply for the NRF-ERG grant?
Open to all researchers whose projects address the Maldives’ national priorities in the specified pillars.
2. What is the maximum funding available?
Up to MVR 500,000 per project.
3. How long can a project last?
Maximum duration is 1.5 years.
4. What topics are eligible?
Projects must align with governance, economic development, digital innovation, or the green agenda.
5. When is the application deadline?
31 January 2026.
6. When will successful applicants be notified?
By 28 February 2026.
7. Can collaborative projects be funded?
Yes, projects involving multiple researchers are eligible, provided they meet the submission requirements.
Conclusion
The NRF-ERG 2025-001 provides a strategic opportunity for researchers to contribute to the Maldives’ national development goals. By funding innovative, policy-relevant, and sustainable research projects, the program strengthens evidence-based decision-making and fosters solutions that improve governance, economic growth, digital innovation, and environmental resilience. Researchers are encouraged to submit well-prepared proposals to maximize their chance of success and impact.
For more information, visit The Maldives National University.