Deadline: November 21, 2025
The ACET Young Leaders in Research Grant 2026 is a fully funded 12-month research programme designed to support early-career African researchers working in economics or related fields. The programme enables selected researchers to lead policy-relevant, context-driven research projects that contribute to Africa’s long-term transformation agenda. The ACET Young Leaders in Research Grant 2026 offers financial support, mentorship, visibility, and capacity-building opportunities for the next generation of policy researchers across the continent.
About the Grant
Research Funding
Successful applicants will receive up to USD 15,000 to cover research expenses including data collection, fieldwork, travel, materials, and living costs.
Mentorship
Each grantee will be paired with a Senior Fellow from the African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET) for one-on-one mentorship throughout the 12-month programme.
Professional Development
Participants will gain access to research networks, peer-learning sessions, professional visibility platforms, and opportunities to publish and present their findings.
Research Themes for 2026
Applicants must submit proposals aligned with one or more of the following themes:
- Gender Equality – research on economic empowerment, leadership, inclusion and opportunities for women and girls.
- Regional Integration – research on trade, mobility, cross-border markets and policy cooperation across African countries.
- Innovation & Digital Policy – research exploring digital transformation, data governance, technology adoption and inclusive innovation.
- Green Industrial Transformation – research that supports climate-smart industrialisation, resilient supply chains, circular economy models and green growth.
All themes are aligned with ACET’s “Growth with DEPTH” framework: Diversification, Export Competitiveness, Productivity, Technology, and Human Well-being.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the programme, applicants must:
- Be African nationals or hold permanent residency in an African country.
- Be 35 years old or younger at the time of application.
- Hold or be enrolled in a Master’s degree (or higher) in economics or a related field, or demonstrate equivalent research experience.
- Show demonstrated interest in research through study, internships, fellowships, volunteering or practical projects.
- Submit the application in English.
- Be affiliated with an institution or apply as an independent researcher.
Programme Timeline
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 30 September 2025 |
| Rolling Review Period | 30 September – 21 November 2025 |
| Final Application Deadline | 21 November 2025 |
| Interview Stage | From 8 December 2025 |
| Selected Cohort Announcement | Around 18 December 2025 |
| Programme Commencement | 1 January 2026 |
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Concept Note – maximum 800 words (proposed topic, research questions, methodology, expected contribution).
- Statement of Purpose – maximum 500 words (motivation, research background, leadership goals).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – highlighting academic and professional experience.
- Two Professional or Academic References – confirming research ability and leadership potential.
Why You Should Apply
This grant provides a unique opportunity for emerging African researchers to secure funding, gain access to high-level mentorship, contribute to policy debates, and strengthen their research capacity. It is suited for individuals committed to producing evidence-based research that will influence economic and social policy on the continent.
How to Apply
➡️ Apply Now
➡️ Read More About the Programme
(contact us for proposal drafting, refinning and review)
