Deadline: January 15, 2026
The Mastercard Foundation University of Cambridge Climate Resilience and Sustainability Research Fund (CReSus RF) is a groundbreaking initiative designed to support collaborative research projects that address pressing issues of climate resilience and sustainability with a strong focus on Africa.
This fund provides a unique opportunity for researchers at the University of Cambridge to partner with Africa-based researchers or institutions in developing innovative, interdisciplinary projects that contribute to real-world climate solutions and sustainable development.
The Mastercard Foundation and the University of Cambridge have committed a total of £7.7 million to this programme, which will run annual funding cycles from 2025 through 2030.
Focus Areas
The Mastercard Foundation University of Cambridge Climate Resilience and Sustainability Research Fund welcomes research proposals that tackle issues related to:
- Climate resilience
- Sustainability
- Interdisciplinary and innovative solutions to environmental challenges
Projects that demonstrate engagement with youth and show clear benefits to communities in Africa will receive priority consideration. The fund encourages collaboration that bridges academic disciplines and fosters impactful partnerships between Cambridge and African institutions.
Who Can Apply
Applications must be submitted jointly by two researchers:
- One based at the University of Cambridge, and
- One based at a university or research institute in Africa.
Applicants should generally be at postdoctoral level or above, although individuals with equivalent professional experience relevant to the proposed research may also be considered.
Types of Grants Available
Two categories of funding are available under this programme:
- Research Catalyst Grants – Up to £20,000
Designed to support smaller-scale, early-stage collaborative research projects. - Workshop Grants – Up to £50,000
Intended to fund workshops or events that promote collaboration, knowledge exchange, and research capacity building between Cambridge and African researchers.
What the Fund Covers
The fund is intended to support the direct costs of carrying out the research or organizing workshops. It does not cover salaries, overheads, or institutional administrative costs. Applicants should ensure that proposed budgets reflect expenses directly related to the research activities.
Application Requirements
Each application should include the following:
- A case for support outlining the collaborative research or workshop concept
- A detailed budget plan
- A clear and concise lay summary of the project
- Letters of support from both participating institutions
- CVs of both lead researchers (maximum of two pages each)
Collaboration must be genuine and balanced—both partners should contribute equally to the design and execution of the research.
Application Procedure
The application process must be initiated by the Cambridge-based principal investigator, who will:
- Register on the Cambridge-Africa portal,
- Complete the initial sections of the online form, and
- Invite the African partner researcher to co-edit and finalize the submission.
All applications must be submitted through the online platform by the stated deadline.
Deadline
The application deadline is 15 January 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted, so applicants are strongly encouraged to complete and review their proposals well before the closing date.
Selection Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated based on:
- Relevance to climate resilience and sustainability
- Quality and originality of the research idea
- Strength of the collaboration between Cambridge and African institutions
- Potential for lasting impact and engagement with African communities and youth
Successful applications will demonstrate mutual benefit, academic excellence, and a clear plan for dissemination and sustainability of the research outcomes.
Final Notes
The Mastercard Foundation University of Cambridge Climate Resilience and Sustainability Research Fund offers a powerful platform for fostering meaningful research partnerships that advance Africa’s resilience to climate change. By connecting Cambridge researchers with their African counterparts, this initiative aims to generate actionable knowledge that supports sustainable development and empowers local communities.
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
