BRICS STI Framework Programme Opens Pilot STI Flagship Projects Call 2026 for International Research Funding Collaboration

The BRICS STI Framework Programme has officially announced the opening of the Pilot STI Flagship Projects Call 2026, a major international funding opportunity designed to strengthen scientific collaboration, technological innovation, and research partnerships across BRICS member countries and partner nations.

This call provides a platform for researchers, institutions, and innovation-driven organizations to jointly develop high-impact scientific and technological projects that address global and regional challenges. The initiative promotes cross-border cooperation in science, technology, and innovation (STI), reinforcing shared development goals among participating countries.

Overview of the Pilot STI Flagship Projects Call 2026

The Pilot STI Flagship Projects Call 2026 is a competitive international funding initiative under the BRICS STI cooperation framework. It supports collaborative research and innovation projects that involve multiple participating countries.

The call is part of a broader effort to enhance:

• Scientific research cooperation
• Technology transfer and innovation
• Joint problem-solving in global challenges
• Capacity building among BRICS and partner research institutions

Key Dates and Deadline

• Application Opening: Ongoing
• Submission Deadline: June 16, 2026 at 15:00 (UTC+3, Moscow Time)

Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their proposals well before the deadline to avoid technical delays or last-minute submission issues.

Participating Countries

This funding call is open to collaborative projects involving researchers and institutions from the following countries:

• Brazil
• China
• Egypt
• Iran
• Russia
• South Africa

These countries represent a strong global network of emerging economies committed to advancing science and technology collaboration.

Funding and Collaboration Scope

The program supports flagship-level research projects, meaning proposals should demonstrate:

• High scientific impact and innovation potential
• Strong international collaboration across at least two participating countries
• Clear relevance to global or regional challenges
• Feasibility and sustainability of research outcomes

Projects may span various scientific and technological fields, including but not limited to:

• Engineering and applied sciences
• Health and biomedical research
• Artificial intelligence and digital transformation
• Environmental sustainability and climate research
• Energy systems and renewable technologies
• Agricultural innovation and food security

Application Requirements

Applicants are required to submit a Joint Application Form (JAF) developed under the BRICS STI Framework Programme.

Supporting documents include:

• Official Call Announcement
• Joint Application Form (JAF)
• National Annexes from participating funding agencies
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ document)

Each participating country has its own national funding annex and guidelines that must be followed during submission.

National Funding Agencies Involved

The following national agencies coordinate participation in this program:

• National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq) – Brazil
• Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) – China
• Science, Technology & Innovation Funding Authority (STDF) – Egypt
• Iran National Science Foundation (INSF) – Iran
• Ministry of Science and Higher Education (MSHE) – Russia
• National Research Foundation (NRF) – South Africa

These agencies play a key role in evaluating, funding, and supporting approved research projects within their respective countries.

Key Objectives of the Program

The Pilot STI Flagship Projects Call 2026 aims to:

1. Strengthen multilateral scientific cooperation among BRICS countries
2. Promote cutting-edge research and technological innovation
3. Support sustainable development through science-based solutions
4. Enhance mobility and collaboration among researchers
5. Foster long-term international research networks

Expected Impact of Selected Projects

Successful projects are expected to:

• Deliver innovative scientific outputs with global relevance
• Improve research capacity across participating institutions
• Generate policy-relevant scientific findings
• Promote technology transfer and commercialization opportunities
• Strengthen BRICS STI cooperation framework

How to Apply

Applicants must:

1. Form a consortium involving eligible institutions from participating countries
2. Complete the Joint Application Form (JAF)
3. Review and comply with national annex requirements
4. Submit applications through the official BRICS STI submission platform
5. Ensure compliance with the deadline: June 16, 2026, 15:00 UTC+3

Important Documents

• Call Announcement (PDF)
• Joint Application Form (DOCX)
• National Annexes (country-specific guidelines)
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ PDF)

Final Note

The Pilot STI Flagship Projects Call 2026 represents a significant opportunity for international research collaboration within the BRICS STI Framework Programme. It is designed to support transformative scientific projects that can contribute to sustainable development and global innovation leadership.

Applicants are encouraged to carefully review all national and program guidelines before submission.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

For more information about this opportunity, visit here.

Discover more Global Grant Opportunities on OFY here.