ACET Young Leaders in Research (YLR) Grant 2026: Up to $15,000 for Early-Career African Researchers

Key Details:

• Funding: Up to US$15,000
• Duration: 12 months
• Who Can Apply: Early-career African researchers aged 35 or younger
• Academic Background: Master’s degree or higher, completed or in progress
• Fields: Economics and related disciplines
• Research Focus: Gender Equality, Regional Integration, Innovation & Digital Policy, and Green Industrial Transformation
• Benefits: Research funding, mentorship, peer learning, networking, publication and presentation opportunities
• Eligibility: African nationals or applicants with permanent residency in African countries
• Provider: African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET)

About the YLR Program

The Young Leaders in Research (YLR) Program is a 12-month grant. It supports early-career African researchers in economics and related fields to lead policy-relevant, context-driven research that advances Africa’s transformation agenda. Young Researchers receive funding, mentorship, visibility, and professional development support to elevate their research and influence policymaking on the continent.

Eligibility

• Preference will be given to African Nationals or applicants who hold permanent residency in African countries.
• Applicants should exhibit leadership qualities and commitment to positively impacting Africa and beyond.
• Age 35 or younger
• Completed or enrolled in a master’s degree or higher.
• Background in economics or related fields.
• Demonstrated interest in research through coursework, internships, volunteer work, or personal projects. This may include participation in academic work or projects or contributions to community-based projects.

Support Provided

• Up to $15,000 research grant.
• Mentorship from ACET Senior Fellows.
• Peer learning and networking
• Opportunity for publication and presentation.

Topics of Research

• Regional Integration
• Innovation & Digital Policy
• Green Industrial Transformation

Submission requirements

• Concept note (max 800 words).
• Statement of purpose (max 500 words).
• CV.
• Two academic or professional references.

Apply for Program

Important Dates

• Call for Applications opens: 10 August 2026.
• Rolling Review Period: Until September 7 2025.
• Interviews: Mid-November 2026.
• Cohort announced: December 2026
• Program Start: January 1, 2027.

Contact

Email questions to

ylr@acetforafrica.org

Apply for Program

See more at acetforafrica.org/young-leaders-in-research/

acetforafrica.org

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