The International Development Research Centre is inviting applications for its International Joint Initiative for Research Harnessing Disruptive Technologies to Address Global Challenges. This program supports global collaborative research projects that leverage disruptive technologies to tackle pressing international challenges.

Grants are available to eligible researchers in Ghana, Indonesia, Namibia, Peru, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe, coordinated through their national funding agencies, with matching funds provided by IDRC. Applications follow a multi-stage process, beginning with a Notice of Intent (March 3, 2026) and progressing through Letters of Intent and full proposals.

Program Overview

The initiative encourages international research collaboration focused on disruptive technologies, such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, advanced materials, and digital innovations, to address global development and sustainability challenges.

Key objectives include:

• Supporting research projects that leverage emerging technologies for societal benefit

• Promoting cross-border collaboration among researchers and institutions

• Complementing the New Frontiers in Research Fund (NFRF) main call

• Strengthening capacity and innovation ecosystems in participating countries

The program operates under the strategic direction of the Canada Research Coordinating Committee and is implemented through the NFRF International Joint Initiative framework.

Participating Countries and Funding

Grants are coordinated through national funding agencies in each participating country, with IDRC providing limited matching funds.

Funding by Country

• Ghana – Ghana National Research Fund: up to CAD 125,000

• Indonesia – National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN): up to CAD 250,000

• Namibia – National Commission on Research Science and Technology: up to CAD 125,000

• Peru – National Council on Science and Technology (CONCYTEC): up to CAD 250,000

• Rwanda – National Council for Science and Technology: up to CAD 250,000

• Zimbabwe – Research Council of Zimbabwe: up to CAD 125,000

Eligibility

Eligibility is determined by both the national funding agency and the broader NFRF requirements.

Key Team Requirements:

• Project teams must include researchers eligible for funding from at least three funding organizations.

• Must have at least:

  • One principal investigator eligible for NFRF funding in Canada

  • One principal investigator eligible for funding from a non-IDRC consortium country

• Teams must comply with both national and NFRF international criteria.

How to Apply

Applications follow a multi-stage process to ensure compliance and readiness.

Step 1: Notice of Intent (Mandatory)

• Deadline: March 3, 2026

• Purpose: Administrative and eligibility verification

• Notes: This stage is not assessed for merit

Step 2: Letter of Intent

• Deadline: June 9, 2026

• Purpose: Shortlisted teams present project concept, collaboration plan, and alignment with program objectives

• Outcome: Selected teams are invited to submit full proposals

Step 3: Full Application

• Only teams invited after the LOI stage can submit full proposals

• Requires detailed methodology, budget, milestones, and evidence of international collaboration

Funding Highlights

• Grants are provided through national funding agencies, with limited matching funds from IDRC

• Funding ranges from CAD 125,000 to CAD 250,000, depending on the country

• Grants are intended to cover:

  • Research personnel salaries

  • Project-related supplies and equipment

  • Travel and collaboration costs directly linked to the project

• Teams can leverage matching IDRC funds to increase total project funding

Why This Initiative Matters

This program addresses the global need for research innovation by:

• Encouraging cross-border collaboration on urgent development challenges

• Applying disruptive technologies for global impact

• Strengthening research capacity and infrastructure in developing countries

• Enhancing the visibility and competitiveness of participating research institutions

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Failing to meet both national and NFRF eligibility criteria

• Submitting teams with insufficient international collaboration

• Missing mandatory deadlines for Notice of Intent or Letter of Intent

• Incomplete documentation or unclear demonstration of project relevance and impact

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the first application step?

Submit a mandatory Notice of Intent by March 3, 2026 for administrative verification.

2. Who can apply for funding?

Eligible researchers in Ghana, Indonesia, Namibia, Peru, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe, as defined by each country’s national funding agency.

3. How much funding is available?

Grants range from CAD 125,000 to CAD 250,000, depending on the participating country, with matching funds from IDRC available in some cases.

4. Are international collaborations required?

Yes. Project teams must include researchers eligible for at least three funding organizations, including NFRF Canada and at least one other country.

5. When is the Letter of Intent due?

June 9, 2026. Only selected teams from this stage can proceed to full proposals.

6. What technologies are considered disruptive?

Disruptive technologies include AI, biotech, advanced materials, digital platforms, and other innovations addressing global challenges.

7. Does IDRC provide direct funding?

IDRC provides limited matching funds to increase overall grant amounts administered by national funding agencies.

Conclusion

The International Joint Initiative for Research Harnessing Disruptive Technologies is a strategic global funding opportunity for researchers addressing pressing international challenges.

With coordinated funding across six countries, structured multi-stage applications, and access to matching funds, this initiative promotes collaborative, high-impact research that strengthens both local and global innovation ecosystems.

Researchers should prepare teams early and ensure compliance with national agency requirements and NFRF criteria ahead of the Notice of Intent deadline.