Deadline: 31-Dec-2025
The Rumah Group has launched a new Publishing Support Grant Programme to support independent researchers, conservationists and small organisations across Southeast Asia.
Across Southeast Asia, many independent researchers, conservationists and practitioners are generating valuable knowledge about marine and coastal ecosystems, yet much of this work never reaches the global scientific literature due to high publishing costs.
The Publishing Support Grant Programme is designed to close this gap by enabling independent researchers and small organisations to share their work with the wider scientific community. By supporting publication costs, the programme increases the visibility of local research and ensures that knowledge generated in the region can inform conservation policy, practice and funding.
Publishing fees, known as Article Processing Charges (APCs), typically range from USD 1,500 to over USD 5,000 per paper, creating a significant financial barrier for researchers and practitioners working outside major institutions. Approved applicants may receive up to USD 3,000 per paper, with grants covering both pre-acceptance preparation costs and post-acceptance publication fees.
The funding approach is centred on small, flexible grants that directly remove financial barriers to publishing. Priority is given to individuals and small NGOs without institutional support, amplifying underrepresented voices, strengthening local scientific leadership, and ensuring Southeast Asian perspectives and data are reflected in global conservation discourse.
The grant may be used to cover Article Processing Charges (APCs), which are the fees required for publishing in open-access or hybrid academic journals. It can also support Manuscript Preparation Costs, including essential editing, translation, or formatting services necessary to meet journal requirements. In addition, the grant may fund Open-Access Fees to ensure that published research is publicly accessible, thereby increasing its visibility and reach. This programme does not cover fieldwork or research expenses; applicants seeking support for those activities should refer to the Community Conservation Grant Programme.
Eligibility is open to independent researchers, unaffiliated practitioners, community groups and local NGOs across Southeast Asia who have a completed or near-final manuscript ready for submission, or one that has already been submitted or accepted by a recognised journal. Research must contribute to marine conservation outcomes in the region, and articles must be published as open access in journals of recognised quality that are not predatory.
By directly addressing financial challenges in the publishing process, the programme helps vital local data and insights reach a global audience, contributing to stronger decision-making and action in marine conservation.
For more information, visit Rumah Group.