The Al Qasimi Foundation’s Seed Grants offer initial funding, with a maximum of 50,000 AED, for conducting applied research or piloting initiatives that are not covered by its Doctoral and Faculty Research programs. Eligible applicants include individuals and organizations from the United Arab Emirates and abroad, representing diverse disciplines and professional fields.
The Al Qasimi Foundation Seed Grants 2024
Grant funds are distributed based on the proposal’s budget and can be utilized for diverse purposes, including travel expenses (airfare, car rental, accommodation), research assistant support, equipment procurement, translation or other professional services, printed materials, and event hosting.
Grant Objectives
- Create avenues for individuals or organizations to conduct applied research or trial programs to benefit the Ras Al Khaimah community.
- Advocate for interdisciplinary approaches and solutions to public policy matters.
- Cultivate top-notch research and development initiatives that enhance the local capabilities of Ras Al Khaimah and the United Arab Emirates.
- Encourage collaboration among individuals, businesses, academic institutions, and various government and non-government entities in Ras Al Khaimah, the United Arab Emirates, and overseas.
Grant Eligibility Criteria
The minimum requirements for potential Seed Grant applicants are as follows:
- The applicant must show collaboration between at least two different organizations, one based in the United Arab Emirates.
- The applicant should demonstrate the capacity to carry out the proposed project or applied research based on previous experiences.
- Leveraging matching funds, expertise, or other in-kind resources to achieve anticipated goals and outcomes is required.
- The proposal must primarily focus on the United Arab Emirates, specifically the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. If other locations are included, Ras Al Khaimah must be a significant emphasis and beneficiary of the project.
- The proposal must address an education, public health, urban planning/development, or closely related public policy issue relevant to Ras Al Khaimah and the United Arab Emirates.
- The applicant should illustrate how the proposal aligns with the Al Qasimi Foundation’s 2019-2023 Research, Capacity Development, or Community Engagement strategies.
- Addressing sustainability considerations and outlining anticipated next steps after the Seed Grant funding ends is also required.
Grant Selection Criteria
- The grant is given based on the quality of the proposal, taking into account its relevance and overall strength. The evaluation process also considers the potential for impact and the general sustainability of the proposed project.
Application Process
- Before submitting your application, it is important to review the grant handbook for crucial information.
- Those interested in applying should first create an account in the Foundation’s grant management portal and then follow the Seed Grant application instructions when submissions become available. All required documents and the online application form must be uploaded and submitted through the grant management portal by March 1, 2024, to be considered.
- Submission of the online application form through the grant management portal
- A brief introductory cover letter explaining the motivation behind applying for the Seed Grants, providing a concise overview of collaborators involved (including their relevant expertise and skills), and demonstrating how the proposal aligns with the Al Qasimi Foundation’s mission.
- Curriculum vitae (CV) or resume for the project leader and key collaborator(s) outlining their educational backgrounds, publications, work experience, honors and awards, and professional association affiliations.
- Proposals should encompass (1) a project overview and its significance; (2) a literature review or relevant background details; (3) the proposed methodology; and (4) anticipated outcomes.
- Anticipated timeline for the proposed project, including key milestones and associated deliverables.
- A filled Seed Grant Budget Template outlining itemized expenses and the total grant request (Foundation contribution not exceeding 50,000 AED).
- A letter of endorsement from a colleague (or organization if applying on behalf of an institution), specifying the duration, degree, and type of relationship between the recommending party and the applicant.
- Official documentation of Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval for the proposed project if it will involve research activities (or plans for gaining approval if not available at the time of application).
- Letters of support from partner institutions in Ras Al Khaimah and the United Arab Emirates (as applicable).
Visit the official website of Al Qasimi Foundation Seed Grants for additional information.
Application Deadline
March 1, 2024.
