UNESCO Science for Crisis Response and Solutions Research Continuity Grants for Africa 2026: Apply for Up to US$2,000 in Research Funding

The UNESCO Science for Crisis Response and Solutions (SCRS) Research Continuity Grants for Africa 2026 offer an opportunity for African researchers whose natural-science research has been interrupted by armed conflict, a natural disaster, or a biological hazard. This small-grants initiative aims to help researchers based at recognized African universities and research institutes continue or complete a clearly defined component of research affected by a crisis.

For the 2026 pilot call, UNESCO plans to provide six institutional grants worth up to US$2,000 each. The funding is intended for targeted research activities that can be completed within six months and directly address the effects of an interruption, such as replacing essential consumables, restoring access to equipment, conducting necessary fieldwork, or completing a limited stage of data collection or analysis.

Eligible research areas include the natural sciences as well as interdisciplinary research with a substantial natural-science component. The initiative prioritizes practical activities directly connected to research that has already been disrupted by a qualifying crisis, helping protect valuable scientific data and preserve research capacity in crisis-affected environments.