IGC's call for proposals

Promoting sustainable growth is one of the major policy challenges in low- and middle-income countries. Too often, policy decisions are made without reliable evidence and are instead based on personal values, pressure from political parties and interest groups, or limiting institutional barriers. Evidence-based policymaking, drawing on the best available empirical research, can provide clarity where political opinion and theory fall short.  

To encourage such research, the IGC has now launched its 10th call for proposals. Applications must be submitted by 30 September 2024, 5pm (BST). Any researcher specialising in economics or related social sciences may apply, although the lead PI should be pursuing or have obtained a PhD. We give equal opportunity to researchers from every country, and particularly welcome proposals from local researchers.  

We are looking for research projects that address the opportunities and barriers to sustainable growth across our four themes: firms, trade, and productivity; state effectiveness; cities; and energy and environment. Our recently revised evidence papers give a thorough summary of the most current issues across each theme, condensed into the IGC research strategy. Research on climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies is highly encouraged and more insights on this literature can be found in our White paper, Innovation, growth, and the environment. 

The IGC model encourages both policy-relevant research and evidence-based policy. It is a two-way street. We have therefore outlined the most pressing national research priorities for each of our 10 partner countries across Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. Researchers are recommended to conduct their research in one of these countries as our country offices can help facilitate meetings with policymakers, provide access to datasets, and engagement opportunities with local research partners. We recommend that you get in touch with them for feedback as you design your project and disseminate your findings. We also accept exceptional proposals for research in other low- and middle-income countries that can produce results that are directly relevant to policy challenges in IGC countries and are of higher academic standard. 

It may be helpful to understand how the IGC evaluates proposals. We have six evaluation criteria, assessing proposals based on their 1) potential for direct policy impact, 2) potential for academic impact and journal publication, 3) empirical rigour and quality of research design, 4) alignment with our research priorities, 5) engagement with local institutions, and 6) cost-effective budget. You may apply to the full grant window for self-contained research projects and to the small grant for pilot and exploratory work. Research through the small grant must be conducted in one of the 10 IGC countries or in Tanzania, India, or Yemen. 

To assist in this effort, we have put together a collection of resources to help you prepare a strong application. In addition to examples of past successful proposals, we also include an overview of the application form, a model budget, and detailed application guidelines that will assist you to fill out a proposal in line with IGC Pay Matrix and Travel Policy. In a shift from the past, contracts must be institutionally managed and informed in advance of proposal submission. 

Potential applicants may also benefit from our past virtual lecture series led by world-leading economists on topics relating to environmental economics and firms and development. Hundreds of PhD students, policymakers, and researchers attend each year. You can sign up for our next lecture series on urban economics, which starts on 25 September 2024. 

Feel free to reach out to [email protected] if you any questions about the call. We will hold an open day for queries regarding the call on 20 August and 10 September, with more details to come soon. 

The IGC call for proposals is open from 29 July to 30 September 2024.