South Africa–Canada Seed Grant for Collaborative Research 2026 | Funding for International Research Partnerships

The South Africa–Canada Seed Grant for Collaborative Research offers researchers a unique opportunity to secure funding while building impactful international partnerships between South Africa and Canada. Designed for PhD-level researchers, this program supports collaborative projects that address global challenges through interdisciplinary research and capacity development.

About the Program

Launched through a partnership between the National Research Foundation (NRF) of South Africa and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) of Canada, this initiative strengthens academic collaboration under the South Africa–Canada Universities Network (SACUN).

The program aims to foster long-term research relationships by supporting joint projects between researchers affiliated with eligible institutions in both countries. Up to eight projects will be funded, with each focusing on shared global priorities.

Funded projects will run for 24 to 36 months, beginning in late 2026, and will support a wide range of collaborative activities such as joint publications, workshops, conferences, and research exchanges.

Why This Opportunity Matters

International collaboration is increasingly essential for addressing complex global challenges such as climate change, inequality, and technological transformation. This grant provides a structured pathway for researchers to build meaningful cross-border partnerships while contributing to impactful, real-world solutions.

Beyond funding, the program strengthens academic networks, promotes knowledge exchange, and supports inclusive research ecosystems. It also emphasizes capacity building, particularly for emerging researchers, making it a strategic opportunity for long-term academic growth.

What Participants Will Gain

Participants in this program benefit from both financial support and professional development opportunities that extend beyond a single project.

Researchers will gain access to:

• Funding to support collaborative research activities and mobility
• Opportunities to build and expand international research networks
• Experience working on interdisciplinary and globally relevant topics
• Increased visibility through joint publications and research outputs
• Capacity-building opportunities for early-career researchers and students

For South African teams, funding can reach up to ZAR 300,000 per year for three years, while Canadian researchers may receive up to CAD $100,000 over two years, with the possibility of a one-year extension.

Who Can Apply

This opportunity is open to researchers who meet specific academic and institutional requirements in both countries.

Applicants must:

• Hold a PhD
• Be affiliated with an eligible South African or Canadian postsecondary institution
• Apply as part of a joint research team with one Principal Investigator (PI) from each country

Researchers from NGOs, private companies, or other sectors may participate as collaborators but cannot serve as Principal Investigators or receive funding directly from the grant.

Eligible Areas

Projects must align with one of the program’s priority themes, which reflect shared global and national interests:

• Just and Resilient Societies
• Environmental Sustainability
• Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation
• Sustainable Economic Growth
• Mathematics Education

Interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches are strongly encouraged, particularly those that integrate social sciences and humanities perspectives.

Application Process and Deadline

Applications must be submitted through a joint process led by the South African Principal Investigator via the NRF online system.

Required documents include:

• CVs of all project partners
• Detailed project description
• Comprehensive budget breakdown
• Letters of intent from all collaborators

The application deadline is May 28, 2026, with institutional submissions due shortly after. Selected projects are expected to begin in October 2026.

Given the competitive nature of the program and the limited number of funded projects, applicants are encouraged to develop strong, well-structured proposals that clearly demonstrate collaboration, impact, and feasibility.

Read the official call and apply on the Carelton University website.

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