The GDPC Research Grant 2026 supports emerging researchers from low- and middle-income countries to conduct original research on the principled and accountable use of technology in humanitarian action. This grant provides $10,000 USD for projects lasting up to eight months, focusing on ICTs including artificial intelligence.
The Global Disaster Preparedness Center (GDPC), in partnership with the French Red Cross Foundation, launched this Spotlight Research Grants Program to deepen understanding of how technology can be applied ethically in humanitarian contexts. The program aims to expand the evidence base on responsible technology use, emphasizing diverse and local perspectives.
Benefits of GDPC Research Grant 2026
- $10,000 USD for research
- Research lasting up to eight months
- Support for original research in low- and middle-income countries
- Research can be conducted in English or French
- Opportunity to inform policy, planning, humanitarian programming, and community action
Eligibility Criteria for the GDPC Research Grant 2026
- Applicants must be affiliated with an accredited university at the time of submission
- Open to PhD candidates, post-doctoral researchers, and faculty members
- Researchers should come from disciplines in social sciences and humanities
- Applications are open to researchers who are nationals of low- and middle-income countries
- Research must be focused on low- and middle-income countries
- Proposed research projects must align with one of the program’s defined topics
- Projects must be feasible for completion within the eight-month program timeline (1 November 2026 to 30 June 2027)
- Final research paper must be submitted in English or French
How to Apply for the GDPC Research Grant 2026
- Check your eligibility using the Eligibility Form link on the official page
- Prepare the complete application package including: Applicant Information, Project Summary, Project Description, Budget, Research Team Composition, and Letters of Collaboration
- Submit your application before the deadline: 31 July 2026, 23:59 UTC
- Submit applications well in advance of the deadline to avoid technical issues
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the GDPC Research Grant. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the funding amount for the research grants?
The research grants are US$ 10,000.
What languages are supported?
While applications must be submitted in English, the research may be conducted in any language. Final reports must be submitted in English or French.
What specific expenses can be covered by the research grant funding?
Eligible costs include personnel costs for part-time staff and graduate students, data collection and analysis costs, essential travel at economy rates, and administrative overhead up to 8% of the total grant. Ineligible costs include supplementing full-time salaries, business or first-class airfare, and entertainment expenses.
What should my budget proposal for the research project include?
The budget proposal should be in US dollars and include a breakdown of expenses. For exchange rate information, please see the Oanda Currency Converter.
Can generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools be used in proposal preparation and/or research projects?
Researchers are allowed to use AI tools as a supportive aid for improving writing. However, all intellectual contributions and research outcomes must be the result of human effort and expertise. Any breach of research integrity may result in disqualification.
How are low- and middle-income countries determined for the purposes of this research grants program?
Low- and middle-income countries are defined based on the country classifications provided by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
I am originally from a low- or middle-income country but currently reside in a high-income country. Can I still apply?
Yes, you are eligible if you are a national of a low- or middle-income country, even if you currently reside in a high-income country. However, your research project must focus on addressing issues within a low- or middle-income country context.
Can international collaborations be part of the research proposals?
Yes, international collaborations and partnerships between various institutions are allowed. A letter of support from a relevant partner institution should be included in the application.
Can I collaborate with researchers from institutions in high-income countries?
While the program is primarily focused on researchers from low- and middle-income countries, collaborations with researchers from high-income countries are not explicitly prohibited. However, the primary applicant must be from a low- or middle-income country.
Can I submit my research findings to academic journals or conferences?
Yes, researchers are encouraged to disseminate their research findings through academic journals or conferences. Any publication or presentation must acknowledge the support received from the Global Disaster Preparedness Center (GDPC) and French Red Cross Foundation.
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