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