Deadline: 15-May-2026
The London Mathematical Society (LMS) offers the Mathematics in Africa Grant to support mathematicians in organizing or participating in mathematical activities within Africa. Grants cover travel, accommodation, subsistence, and caring costs up to £2,000, with applications open to mathematicians worldwide, though PhD students are not eligible. Applications are due by 15 May 2026, and activities must occur within Africa.
Overview of the Grant
The LMS Mathematics in Africa Grant is designed to encourage mathematical activity on the African continent. It provides partial funding for:
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Attendance at mathematical conferences or workshops
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Organisation of mathematical conferences or workshops
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Research collaborations involving mathematicians
The grant aims to increase participation, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing in mathematics in Africa. Applicants uncertain about eligibility are encouraged to contact LMS before submitting.
Funding and Eligible Costs
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Maximum grant: £2,000 (upper limit, not a standard amount)
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Eligible costs:
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Travel, accommodation, and subsistence expenses for the activity
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Caring costs for participants with dependents
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Visa costs (considered part of travel)
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Payment structure:
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Paid to a university or institution, not individuals
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Two instalments: 50% in advance, remainder after submitting satisfactory financial and academic reports
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Unused funds must be returned
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The grant cannot be used for purposes unrelated to the proposed activity.
Who Is Eligible?
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Mathematicians based anywhere in the world
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Activities must take place within Africa
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PhD students are not eligible
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Only one grant per person per LMS financial year (1 August – 31 July)
Conference and workshop organisers are encouraged to consider diversity and inclusion in planning events.
Timeline and Application Process
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Main application deadline: 15 May 2026
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Decisions communicated: Typically in June or October
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Applications are not considered between mid-June and mid-October
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No retrospective funding
Grant Claim Period
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Grants span two LMS financial years
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Funds must be claimed by 31 July of the second year
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Example: Grant awarded in 2023/24 must be claimed by 31 July 2026
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Unclaimed grants are withdrawn
Application Requirements
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Application form must be complete and self-contained
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Supporting materials (CVs) max one side of A4
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Include a list of selected recent papers
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Avoid substantial documents with irrelevant details or external website references
How to Apply
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Confirm eligibility: Mathematician (not PhD student) proposing an activity in Africa.
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Prepare application form: Include activity description, costs, and supporting documents.
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Submit before deadline: 15 May 2026.
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Wait for decision: June or October announcements.
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Claim funds: 50% in advance; remainder after activity report submission.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Applying for activities outside Africa
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Submitting incomplete or unclear applications
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Exceeding supporting document limits
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Requesting funds for ineligible expenses
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Applying multiple times in the same financial year
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the maximum funding amount?
Up to £2,000, depending on actual expenses.
2. Who can apply?
Mathematicians worldwide, excluding PhD students.
3. Can I use the grant for personal expenses?
No. Funds must cover activity-related expenses only.
4. Are activities outside Africa eligible?
No. All supported activities must take place within Africa.
5. How are funds paid?
Grants are paid to a university or institution, in two instalments.
6. Can I apply more than once per year?
No. Only one grant per person per LMS financial year.
7. What documents are required?
A complete application form and a concise CV (max one side, including selected papers).
Conclusion
The LMS Mathematics in Africa Grant provides an excellent opportunity to enhance mathematical research and collaboration on the African continent. With up to £2,000 in support, mathematicians can participate in or organize conferences, workshops, and research collaborations, promoting knowledge sharing and capacity building in African mathematics.
For more information, visit LMS.