Demand-Led Policy Function
Supporting evidence-based policy development for economic growth
Overview
The Demand-Led Policy Function (DPF) is a new mechanism offered by the International Growth Centre (IGC) programme to provide rapid, evidence-based policy support to governments in ODA-eligible countries. This pilot initiative aims to enable FCDO country posts to connect government partners with world-class expertise to address pressing policy challenges related to economic growth and development.
The IGC, a global research programme delivered by the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and the University of Oxford, has over a decade of experience partnering with governments to promote sustainable growth through pathbreaking research. Through the DPF, IGC mobilises its extensive network of researchers and policy experts to deliver targeted, practical support within short timeframes.
Purpose and scope
The DPF is designed to apply existing evidence and insights to specific policy questions, helping governments make informed decisions on programmes and policies that promote green and inclusive growth. Unlike traditional research programmes that generate new evidence over extended periods, the DPF aims to synthesise and contextualise existing knowledge to provide timely, actionable insights.
This mechanism is available to all ODA-eligible countries, regardless of whether they host an IGC country office. The pilot phase particularly encourages participation from a diverse range of countries to test the mechanism's effectiveness across different contexts and policy challenges.
The DPF offers four categories of support, delivered through tailored outputs and funded via IGC’s central budget. Types of support available are detailed below.
Categories of support:
1. Peer review
Independent assessment of planned policies or programmes, providing constructive feedback and international best practice comparisons.
2. Evidence synthesis
Detailed reviews of existing research, including relevant international experiences and case studies.
3. Expert advice
Conceptual contributions to policy frameworks, technical guidance on implementation approaches, and strategic recommendations.
4. Capacity building
Application of existing policy tools and toolkits, knowledge transfer to strengthen institutional capabilities.
- Policy memos and briefing papers (typically 10 pages)
- Closed-door dialogues and consultations (virtual or in-person)
- Workshops and peer-to-peer learning sessions
- Combined approaches tailored to specific needs
All requests must be deliverable within a 5-month timeframe from approval.
FCDO country posts will be required to submit requests on behalf of government partners at any time through the DPF request form. Requests should:
- Originate from a clear government demand with demonstrated political buy-in
- Address challenges related to economic growth and development
- Be specific about objectives and expected outcomes
- Align with country development priorities
Strong proposals will demonstrate how the assistance will lead to concrete policy improvements and show consideration of existing evidence sources.
The DPF will employ a three-stage selection process to ensure quality and strategic alignment:
- FCDO Programme Team Review: Initial screening for strategic relevance and alignment with FCDO priorities and central contract
- IGC Central Team Assessment: Technical review of feasibility, available expertise, and potential impact
- IGC Governance Board Approval (end September): Final selection based on consensus
Selection criteria include:
- Potential impact on green and inclusive growth
- Alignment with IGC mission and available expertise
- Demonstrated political buy-in and implementation viability
- Feasibility within timeline and resource constraints
- Geographic balance and learning value
Posts will receive feedback on all submissions, including constructive explanations for any requests that cannot be accommodated.
The DPF pilot phase runs from 22 August to 31 March 2026. Key milestones include:
- Request submission window: opens 22 August, closes COP 16 September.
- First approval cycle: 16-30 September
- Bids selected: by 30 September, teams notified by 1 October
- Projects implemented: 30 September to end March 2025
For questions about the DPF, request preparation support, or to discuss potential proposals, please contact IGC SRO Evelyn Cavalla ([email protected])
IGC DPF Team: Tim Dobermann, Director of Research ([email protected])
FCDO Growth Research Team: [Contact details to be added]
Posts are encouraged to engage early with the FCDO’s IGC Programme team to discuss potential requests and ensure alignment with the mechanism's objectives.