SANDEE Research Grants 2025: $20,000–30,000 for Early-Career Researchers in Climate, Environment & Development Economics in South Asia & HKH

The South Asian Network for Development and Environmental Economics (SANDEE), an initiative under ICIMOD, has opened the call for concept notes for its 2026 Research Grant Programme. This is a high-value funding opportunity designed for early-career researchers in South Asia and the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region.

Selected research projects will receive grants ranging from USD 20,000 to USD 30,000 over a two-year period. If you are working on the economics of climate risks, natural resource management, or environmental challenges, this grant offers the financial backing and mentorship needed to produce policy-relevant evidence. The deadline to submit your concept note is 31 December 2025.

Grant Overview & Key Details

Research Themes: What Will You Study?

SANDEE prioritizes empirical research that uses economic tools to address environmental problems. Your proposal should align with one of the following core themes:

1. Economics of Climate & Environmental Risks

• Cryosphere changes and associated risks.
• Nature-based solutions (NBS) and financing for disaster risk reduction.
• Sustainable river basin management (Irrigation, Energy, Water Governance).
• Air pollution: Health impacts and policy solutions.

2. Resilient Economies & Landscapes

• Climate-resilient mountain livelihoods.
• Green and circular economy transitions.
• Incentive-based conservation (PES, subsidies).
• Human-wildlife coexistence and conflict mitigation.

3. Regional Action & Global Advocacy

• Economic analysis of regional/global climate policies.
• Loss and damage economics.
• Role of NAPs and NDCs in regional climate finance.

Eligibility Criteria

This grant is targeted at researchers who can bridge the gap between science and policy. To qualify, you must meet the following requirements:

• Profile: Early-career researchers or teams proposing multidisciplinary studies.
• Citizenship/Focus: You must be working in or focusing on: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, or the Hindu Kush Himalaya region.
• Expertise: A strong grounding in environmental economics or related fields is essential.
• Institutional Affiliation: Applications are encouraged from research institutions working in the region.

Higher Funding for Collaboration

While the standard grant is substantial, higher-value grants (closer to the $30k mark) are reserved for: * Multidisciplinary projects. * Research spanning two or more countries. * Studies addressing transboundary environmental issues.

How to Apply

The application process starts with a Concept Note. You do not need a full proposal yet.

1. Review Guidelines: Read the official call to understand the thematic priorities.
2. Draft Concept Note: Include a problem statement, research questions, methodology (economic/statistical analysis), and expected policy outcomes.
3. Submit Online: Upload your concept note via the official SANDEE portal before the deadline.

Official Application Link: Click Here to Apply for SANDEE Research Grant