Organisation Name:

The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD)

Application Deadline:

31 December 2025

About Organisation

The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) is an intergovernmental knowledge and learning centre dedicated to safeguarding the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region. Based in Kathmandu, it works with eight member countries—Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan—to enhance resilience, improve livelihoods, and protect fragile mountain ecosystems. Through research, data, collaboration and capacity building, ICIMOD generates knowledge that strengthens environmental stewardship, supports informed policymaking, and promotes sustainable mountain development. SANDEE, hosted by ICIMOD, advances environmental and resource economics research across South Asia and the HKH region to address environmental challenges through economic analysis.

About the Grant

The SANDEE Research Grants 2026 support researchers exploring the intersection of environment, climate, natural resources, and economic development in South Asia and the HKH region. The program invites concept notes focused on ecosystems management, climate change economics, and greener development policies. Multidisciplinary, cross-border, and transboundary research with strong economic analysis is encouraged. Projects must present rigorous methodologies capable of contributing to both scientific knowledge and policy impact. Grants typically range from USD 20,000–30,000 over two years, with higher support available for collaborative regional initiatives addressing shared environmental challenges and institutional or policy-level issues.

Who can Apply?

Eligible applicants include academics, researchers, and practitioners from South Asia and the HKH region who are employed by universities, research institutes, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. Principal Investigators must be junior or mid-career professionals; senior-level professionals such as professors or directors are not eligible. Applicants must demonstrate institutional affiliation, as support letters and due diligence are required for final selection. Women researchers are strongly encouraged to apply. Independent consulting-type action research proposals will not be considered. Individuals with relatives employed or consulting with ICIMOD are ineligible due to conflict-of-interest requirements.

How to Apply?

Applicants must submit a concept note demonstrating strong economic analysis aligned with SANDEE’s research themes. Only professionals from South Asia or the HKH region may apply. Concept notes should clearly present research relevance, methods, and expected impact. Applications must be submitted through the designated online form before the deadline. Shortlisted applicants may be asked to submit a full proposal with institutional support documentation for final consideration.