Call for Proposals: Strengthen Science-Policy Communication across Asia
Application Deadline:
25 August 2025
About Organisation
The International Science Council’s Regional Focal Point for Asia and the Pacific (ISC-RFP), in collaboration with the International Network for Governmental Science Advice in Asia (INGSA-Asia), works to bridge science and policy for sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region. ISC-RFP serves as a hub for strengthening connections between the scientific community and decision-makers, ensuring that scientific knowledge informs policy and governance across diverse sectors. It aims to cultivate robust partnerships and promote regional collaboration to address pressing challenges through science-driven solutions.
INGSA-Asia plays a pivotal role in fostering science advice and evidence-informed policymaking in the region. Together, ISC-RFP and INGSA-Asia have launched several initiatives to empower scientists, researchers, and policymakers to work collaboratively and design meaningful, policy-relevant scientific activities. Their joint efforts help build institutional and national capacities while creating inclusive platforms for dialogue, innovation, and mutual learning between the scientific and policy communities. Through initiatives like “Science Seeds, Asia,” they continue to emphasize the importance of grassroots-level science advice and the need to enhance science-policy engagement, especially in emerging and underrepresented areas. These organisations jointly contribute to a more informed and resilient policy landscape that supports inclusive growth, equity, and sustainable development across the Asia-Pacific region.
About the Grant
The “Science Seeds, Asia” initiative is a grant program launched by ISC-RFP and INGSA-Asia to promote science-policy engagement across Asia. It provides a unique opportunity for academics, researchers, policymakers, civil servants, and civil society professionals to co-design and deliver science advice activities that directly support evidence-informed policymaking in their respective countries.
The grant supports initiatives such as workshops, events, and training sessions that strengthen collaboration between scientists and policymakers. These activities are intended to enhance understanding, build national capacity, and promote meaningful dialogues that bridge the gap between science and policy. Grant recipients benefit from expert mentorship, capacity-building support, and an inclusive platform for regional engagement.
Grants of up to AUD 9,500 are awarded to cover eligible direct costs including venue hire, event-related services (catering, AV, streaming), travel for speakers, training provider fees, and production of relevant materials. However, salary or staff costs, speaker fees, scholarships, research costs, and institutional overheads are not covered.
The initiative prioritizes diversity, inclusion, innovation, and co-financing capability. It encourages activities that are impactful, well-structured, and designed with community or policy relevance. Overall, “Science Seeds, Asia” aims to strengthen the science-policy interface and empower regional leaders in both fields.
Who can Apply?
The “Science Seeds, Asia” grant is open to individuals and professionals residing in eligible countries within the ISC-RFP Asia region. These include Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam.
Eligible applicants must jointly submit proposals as a team of two individuals:
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One applicant should be affiliated with an academic or research institution, with experience in science engagement beyond academic settings or with the ability to apply scientific insights to policymaking.
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The second applicant must be a policymaker, civil servant, or civil society professional with considerable influence or leadership within their area of work.
Both applicants are expected to collaborate in the full process — from designing and delivering the workshop to active participation during and post-event. Ideal candidates should possess demonstrated leadership qualities and a strong commitment to science-policy engagement.
The grant encourages proposals that feature gender balance, disciplinary and geographic diversity, and inclusion of marginalized or underrepresented communities. Activities should be relevant to public policy needs and aim to foster long-term science-policy relationships. Applicants must also show capacity to manage event logistics and justify budget allocation.
How to Apply?
Interested applicants must jointly prepare a proposal that outlines the objectives, structure, potential impact, and budget of their proposed science-policy engagement activity. The application should demonstrate inclusivity, innovation, co-financing potential, and alignment with the program’s objectives. Both partners must commit to full involvement throughout the activity. Proposals should be submitted to the grant organizers before the specified deadline, adhering to all guidelines provided.
Application Deadline
Applications for the Science Seeds, Asia grant must be submitted by 25th August 2025. Early submissions are encouraged to ensure proper documentation and eligibility verification.
Last Date To Apply
The final date to submit the joint proposal for this initiative is 25 August 2025, after which no applications will be accepted or reviewed under this cycle.
Grant Amount
Successful applicants can receive up to AUD 9,500 in funding to cover eligible direct costs related to organizing science-policy engagement events and capacity-building activities across the region.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
