Call for
Health Research Grants 2025
Application Deadline:
30 April 2025
About Organisation
Azim Premji Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation working towards creating a just, equitable, humane, and sustainable society with a focus on India. Established in 2001 by Azim Premji, the Foundation is committed to enhancing the quality of life for disadvantaged communities through systemic change. Over the years, Azim Premji has donated the majority of his wealth for philanthropic causes, establishing a philanthropic endowment valued at approximately USD 29 billion (INR 2,40,000 crore) as of January 2023. This endowment significantly supports the Foundation’s initiatives and includes 66% economic ownership of Wipro Ltd.
The Foundation works in multiple domains including education, healthcare, and social justice. It supports research, capacity building, and ground-level action to generate impact at scale. Through its various institutions, including Azim Premji University, it also focuses on nurturing future leaders and thinkers committed to social change. The Foundation’s work is rooted in values of inclusivity, sustainability, and evidence-based interventions.
About the Grant
Azim Premji University has launched the second round of research grants aimed at building an evidence-based understanding of health realities among vulnerable communities in India. These grants seek to support empirical and methodologically sound research that can directly inform and improve practice in the healthcare domain.
The grant encourages studies that focus on three major themes: (1) improving health outcomes while reducing the economic burden on vulnerable populations, (2) strengthening or evaluating public health systems, and (3) exploring the intersections of gender and health to reduce disparities—addressing concerns of adolescent girls, the elderly, and gender and sexual minorities.
The grant value per study ranges from INR 5 to 40 lakh, with a duration of 12 to 24 months. Emphasis is placed on primary research with practical applications. The proposals must be cost-effective and should not include implementation programme costs unless directly tied to the research. Secondary or exploratory studies will not be considered.
Successful proposals will demonstrate a deep understanding of the study area, relevance to public health issues, and the ability to work with disadvantaged communities. This initiative supports knowledge creation that leads to real-world improvements in health access and outcomes.
Who can Apply?
The grant is open to researchers affiliated with public institutions and non-profit organisations in India. Applications from independent researchers or those associated with for-profit organisations will not be considered. The research proposal must focus on one of the three specified themes and sub-themes, addressing critical public health concerns.
Each eligible organisation can submit a maximum of two applications, with only one application permitted per researcher. Proposals must be original and not request add-on funding for existing projects. Only primary research will be supported; secondary or exploratory studies are ineligible.
The research team should demonstrate relevant experience and the capability to work in rural or urban settings with disadvantaged populations. Proposals should clearly outline the research questions, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. A strong emphasis is placed on the feasibility, potential impact, and practical application of the research findings.
Organisations must be willing to enter into a service agreement with Azim Premji University upon selection. Additionally, members of the Azim Premji Foundation are not eligible to apply. The grant encourages transparency and public dissemination of results, which may be published or presented in relevant forums to share insights and influence policy or practice.
How to Apply?
Applications must be submitted online between 20 March 2025 and 30 April 2025. Applicants should complete the application form and upload CVs of all PIs and Co-PIs. The form requires detailed information on the study’s significance, theme, objectives, methodology, timeline, and budget. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted to submit a comprehensive proposal for the final selection stage.
Application Deadline
The application portal will be open from 20 March 2025 and will close on 30 April 2025. Submissions beyond this date will not be accepted under any circumstances.
Last Date To Apply
30 April 2025 is the final deadline to apply for the grant. Researchers and institutions are encouraged to complete the application well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
Grant Amount
Selected research projects will receive grants ranging from INR 5 lakh to INR 40 lakh. The duration of the funded studies can be between 12 to 24 months, depending on project requirements.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
