Deadline: March 30, 2026
The ETH4D Research to Action Grants 2026 offer a unique funding opportunity for students, researchers, and academics to translate research findings into practical, real-world impact. Funded by the ETH for Development (ETH4D) initiative at ETH Zurich, this programme supports projects that bridge the gap between academic research and implementation, particularly in the context of global development challenges.
The ETH4D Research to Action Grants 2026 are specifically designed to ensure that research does not remain confined to academic outputs but is actively used, tested, shared, and applied by practitioners, communities, and institutions outside academia.
Overview of the ETH4D Research to Action Grants 2026
The ETH4D Research to Action Grants support short-term, impact-oriented activities that help move research into action. Funded projects may include, but are not limited to:
- Translating research findings into practice
- Developing or testing prototypes and tools
- Strengthening collaboration with non-academic partners
- Supporting dissemination and implementation activities
- Exploring entrepreneurship or scaling pathways
- Engaging practitioners, policymakers, or communities
The overarching aim is to create tangible, real-world impact that addresses pressing development challenges.
Application Deadline
- Application Deadline: 30 March 2026
All applications must be submitted before the deadline. Late submissions will not be considered.
Funding Amount
The funding available under the ETH4D Research to Action Grants 2026 varies by applicant category:
- Up to CHF 5,000 for:
- Bachelor students
- Master students
- Doctoral candidates
- Post-doctoral researchers
- Up to CHF 20,000 for:
- Senior scientists
- Professors
The grant funding is intended to support future project activities only. Costs incurred prior to the start of the project are not eligible.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to individuals affiliated with ETH Zurich, including:
- Bachelor students
- Master students
- Doctoral candidates
- Post-doctoral researchers
- Senior scientists
- Professors
Students must be actively enrolled at ETH Zurich during the period in which the project activities are carried out.
Project Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the ETH4D Research to Action Grants 2026, proposed projects must meet the following requirements:
1. ETH Zurich Link
The project must be clearly connected to ETH Zurich, such as through previous research, academic coursework, or participation in ETH-related initiatives.
2. Non-Academic Partner Collaboration
Each project must involve at least one non-academic partner, such as:
- Non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
- Government institutions
- Private sector organisations
- Community-based organisations
The partner must be based in the country where the project’s impact is expected. A formal letter of support from the partner is mandatory.
3. Real-World Impact Focus
Projects must demonstrate a clear pathway for how research results will be:
- Applied in practice
- Used by non-academic stakeholders
- Shared with practitioners or communities
4. Global Development Orientation
Preference is given to projects implemented in least developed, low-income, or lower-middle-income countries, as defined by the OECD DAC list. Projects outside these regions must provide a strong justification.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit all materials through the online application system in one single PDF file, including:
- Project description and objectives
- Detailed work plan and timeline (e.g. Gantt chart)
- Letter of support from the non-academic partner
- Detailed project budget (using the official template)
- Financial confirmation letter from an ETH professor or ETH unit
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum of two pages, including publications)
- One academic reference letter (not required for professors)
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Why Apply for the ETH4D Research to Action Grants 2026?
The ETH4D Research to Action Grants 2026 provide a valuable opportunity to:
- Move research beyond academic publications
- Build meaningful partnerships with real-world stakeholders
- Strengthen the practical relevance of academic work
- Contribute to sustainable development solutions
- Gain hands-on experience in research implementation
This programme is ideal for applicants who are committed to creating impact beyond the university environment.
Application Links
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