Apply Now for the ACET Young Leaders in Research (YLR) Grant (Up to USD 15,000 Research Grant)

Ednah Carrick November 16, 2025

0 522 3 minutes read

Closing Date: 21 November 2025

Apply Now for the ACET Young Leaders in Research (YLR) Grant (Up to USD 15,000 Research Grant)

Young Leaders in Research (YLR) Grant – Empowering Africa’s Emerging Researchers

If you are an early-career researcher based in Africa and passionate about contributing to the continent’s economic transformation through evidence-based policy work, the Young Leaders in Research (YLR) Grant offers a dynamic 12-month opportunity. This initiative is designed to support researchers under 35 years of age in economics and related fields to conduct high-impact studies, build professional skills and increase their visibility within Africa’s research and policy community.

What is the YLR Grant?

The Young Leaders in Research (YLR) Grant 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.

Why This Grant Matters

Africa is poised for major structural change—accelerating economic diversification, digital innovation, regional integration and green industrial development. Yet, to guide these transitions effectively, high-quality, context-specific research is key. The YLR Grant addresses this need by empowering emerging researchers to lead rigorous studies aligned with Africa’s transformation agenda. You’ll not only access funding, but also mentorship, peer-learning networks and platforms to publish and present your findings—enhancing your ability to influence policy and practice.

Grant Highlights

Duration: 12 months.
Funding: Up to USD 15,000 available to support research activities including data collection, travel, materials and a stipend portion.
Mentorship: Each grantee is paired with an experienced senior researcher/mentor to guide the research process, provide feedback and support professional growth.
Skill-Building & Visibility: Fellows benefit from peer-learning communities, networking events and opportunities to publish in a dedicated series and present at forums.
Research Themes (2026): Includes Gender Equality, Regional Integration, Innovation & Digital Policy, and Green Industrial Transformation—aligned with broader transformation pillars like diversification, export competitiveness, productivity, technology and human well-being.
Eligibility: African nationals or permanent residents; age 35 or younger; holds enrolment in or has completed a Master’s (or higher) in economics or a related discipline; demonstrates research interest through coursework, internships or community-based projects.

Eligibility criteria

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 at the time of application.
Completed or enrolled in a master’s degree or higher.
Background in economics or related field.
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 as well as networking events where possible.
Opportunity for publication and presentation.

Application Process & Preparation

Draft your research concept: Create a concise concept note (up to ~800 words) outlining your research question, methodology, expected contribution and relevance to Africa’s transformation agenda.
Write a statement of purpose: (up to ~500 words) explaining your motivation, leadership potential, how the grant will advance your career and how your work will impact development outcomes.
Update your CV: Highlight academic background, research experience (e.g., coursework, internships, volunteer initiatives), publications, and any policy or community engagement.
Secure references: Two academic or professional referees who can speak to your research aptitude, leadership potential and commitment to Africa’s development.
Submit before the deadline: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, but ensure you submit by the final deadline. Early submission is encouraged.
Prepare for next steps: If shortlisted, be ready for interviews, possibly presenting an outline of your project or engaging with your mentor on refinement.

Why This Opportunity Is a Career Game-Changer

You gain substantial funding (up to USD 15,000) to deliver a high-quality research project—an opportunity rarely available to early-career researchers in Africa.
You receive mentorship and network access—boosting your research profile, opening doors to future collaborations, academic pathways or policy roles.
Your research can influence policy and practice, enabling you to contribute to strategic themes like digital policy, green industrialisation, regional integration or gender equality.
The visibility, publication opportunities and professional development build your credentials—making you a stronger candidate for academic positions, think-tank roles or research partnerships.
You will join a community of emerging African research leaders, gaining peer support and an environment of collective growth.

If you are committed to conducting rigorous, context-driven research, influencing Africa’s development agenda and building your career as a researcher or policy professional, the Young Leaders in Research Grant offers an exceptional opportunity. It’s more than just financial support—it’s a platform for leadership, visibility and transformation.