Deadline: 27-Apr-2026
The Seeds of Science Asia (2026–2027) grant program provides funding of up to $15,000 for collaborative initiatives that strengthen science-informed policymaking across Asia and Australia. Grants support conferences, workshops, trainings, and capacity-building projects that foster equitable regional partnerships and enhance the science-policy interface.
Overview
The Seeds of Science initiative aims to bridge science and policy communities to promote evidence-informed governance and forward-looking decision-making in Asia and Australia. The program is led by ISC-RFP and INGSA-Asia and focuses on:
- Strengthening science-informed policy and decision-making across the Asia region
- Building institutional and individual capacity to address shared regional challenges
- Fostering equitable partnerships between Asian countries and Australia through co-designed projects
The program emphasises collaboration, capacity-building, and regional knowledge exchange to strengthen the science-policy landscape.
Funding Details
- Grant Amount: Up to $15,000 per selected consortium
- Eligible Activities:
- Co-Funding Encouraged: Financial or in-kind contributions, such as staff time, venues, administrative support, or logistical assistance, strengthen proposals
Mentorship Support
Successful applicants will receive expert mentorship in the science-policy field, offering guidance to ensure effective delivery and maximize impact of their proposed activities.
Eligibility Criteria
Applications must be submitted by a consortium of participants meeting geographic requirements:
- Lead Applicant: Based in an Asian country as defined by the program
- Second Applicant: Also based in an Asian country
- Optional Third Applicant: Based in Australia (encouraged but not required)
This structure is designed to promote regional collaboration, build lasting partnerships, and foster equitable knowledge exchange.
How to Apply / How It Works
- Form a Consortium: Assemble the required regional partners
- Develop Proposal: Include clear objectives, planned activities, expected outcomes, budget, and potential co-funding sources
- Submit Application: Follow official submission guidelines with all required documentation
- Evaluation: Applications are assessed on:
- Strength of collaboration and regional engagement
- Clarity of objectives and implementation plan
- Potential impact on the science-policy interface
- Feasibility, innovation, and sustainability of outcomes
- Inclusion of co-funding and in-kind contributions
Who Should Apply?
- Consortia with lead and second applicants based in Asia, with optional Australian partners
- Institutions, NGOs, or organisations engaged in science, policy, or capacity-building initiatives
- Teams committed to regional knowledge exchange and strengthening science-policy partnerships
Tips for a Strong Application
- Demonstrate mutual benefit and equitable collaboration between Asian and Australian partners
- Include a clear plan for capacity-building and policy impact
- Highlight co-funding or in-kind support to strengthen project feasibility
- Provide measurable outcomes and indicators of success
- Ensure consortium members meet geographic eligibility criteria
Why It Matters
The Seeds of Science Asia program enhances science-policy integration across the region by:
- Improving the ability of governments and institutions to use scientific evidence in decision-making
- Strengthening regional collaboration and partnerships
- Building capacity of early-career and established professionals in science and policy
- Supporting initiatives that address shared challenges such as climate, health, and sustainable development
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the maximum grant amount?
Up to $15,000 per selected consortium.
2. Who can be part of the consortium?
Lead and second applicants must be based in Asia; a third applicant can be based in Australia.
3. What types of activities are eligible?
Workshops, conferences, trainings, roundtables, research projects, and capacity-building initiatives that strengthen science-policy linkages.
4. Is co-funding required?
No, but it is encouraged. Co-funding can be financial or in-kind contributions.
5. Will applicants receive support besides funding?
Yes, successful consortia will receive mentorship from experts in the science-policy field.
6. Can individuals apply alone?
No, applications must be submitted as part of a consortium meeting the geographic requirements.
7. What are the key evaluation criteria?
Collaboration strength, clarity of objectives, regional engagement, potential policy impact, innovation, sustainability, and inclusion of co-funding.
Conclusion
The Seeds of Science Asia grant program empowers regional consortia to enhance science-informed policymaking, build capacity, and foster partnerships across Asia and Australia. By supporting collaborative projects, the initiative strengthens the science-policy interface and promotes forward-looking governance in the region.
For more information, visit International Science Council.