Applications Invited for Proposals: Connecting Indigenous Research and Leadership in Canada and the Global South
Application Deadline:
23 September 2025
About Organisation
The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) is a Crown corporation established by the Parliament of Canada in 1970. It plays a crucial role in advancing knowledge, fostering research capacity, and supporting solutions for sustainable development in low- and middle-income countries. IDRC enables individuals, institutions, and communities to lead research initiatives that address the most pressing challenges they face, while also contributing to global knowledge. Its vision is to empower local researchers and ensure their perspectives drive meaningful change in their societies.
With a strong history of supporting Indigenous research in the Global South, IDRC has focused on critical areas such as strengthening Indigenous health systems, promoting resilience against climate change, advancing governance, and expanding opportunities for Indigenous scientists in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It emphasizes education, leadership, capacity-building, and connecting Indigenous researchers with global networks. Gender equality and inclusivity are central to all IDRC programs, ensuring that marginalized voices are uplifted and recognized. Through its partnerships, IDRC fosters collaboration that integrates Indigenous perspectives and values, contributing to more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable futures. By linking research to policy and practice, IDRC continues to support transformative solutions across its five thematic areas.
About the Grant
The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) invites proposals for a funding opportunity designed to strengthen Indigenous research and leadership by building connections between Indigenous communities in Canada and the Global South. This initiative complements the Tri-agency strategic Indigenous Capacity and Leadership in Research Connection Grants led by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC).
The grant aims to create pathways for Indigenous researchers and communities to exchange knowledge, share strategies, and develop collaborative research agendas that address shared challenges. Rooted in principles of self-determination, inclusivity, and respect for Indigenous ways of knowing, the call encourages holistic, interdisciplinary projects that reflect Indigenous priorities. Supported activities may include community gatherings, workshops, and dialogues that contribute to the creation of action plans, strategies, or research agendas.
Applicants are encouraged to design initiatives within IDRC’s thematic areas: Climate-Resilient Food Systems, Democratic and Inclusive Governance, Education and Science, Global Health, and Sustainable Inclusive Economies. Outcomes of this call include increased support for Indigenous researchers, greater engagement with Indigenous knowledge systems, strengthened leadership and capacity, and more ethical, respectful partnerships. By fostering these connections, IDRC aims to empower Indigenous voices, amplify knowledge systems, and support equitable, sustainable development.
Who can Apply?
This funding opportunity is open to Indigenous organizations or organizations supporting Indigenous-led research programs headquartered in eligible countries within West and Central Africa, East and Southern Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, and the Middle East and North Africa. Lead Applicant Organizations must have independent legal status, enabling them to contract, administer funds, and direct project activities. Legal documentation will be required from selected applicants.
Eligible applicants include public research institutes, universities, think tanks, and not-for-profit organizations with a research mandate. However, proposals from individuals, government ministries, or offices of international organizations are not eligible. Regional or country offices of international organizations, even if legally registered, are also excluded from applying as Lead Applicants.
Preference will be given to Indigenous-led organizations or those with demonstrated partnerships with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities in Canada. Organizations seeking to establish such linkages may also apply. Proposals must prioritize Indigenous leadership and include Indigenous researchers, with a focus on the participation of women and gender-diverse Indigenous researchers.
Through this call, IDRC seeks to support organizations committed to ethical, community-driven, and rights-based research approaches that amplify Indigenous perspectives and foster respectful, mutually beneficial partnerships across borders.
How to Apply?
Applicants must submit a complete application electronically through Survey Monkey Apply before the stated deadline. Submissions are accepted in English, French, or Spanish. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Proposals should highlight Indigenous leadership, demonstrate organizational eligibility, and align with the grant’s objectives. Selected applicants will undergo a technical review, including verification of legal status.
Application Deadline
The deadline for submitting proposals is September 23, 2025, at 23:59 Eastern Daylight Time. Applications received after this time will not be considered for funding.
Last Date to Apply
Applications must be submitted electronically no later than September 23, 2025. Proposals received beyond the deadline will automatically be excluded from review and funding consideration.
Grant Amount
Up to seven grants are available, each valued at a maximum of CAD 100,000. The grants will support one-year projects, inclusive of all research activities, events, and reporting requirements.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
