What we fund
We support research that enriches policy dialogue and policymaking on strategies for inclusive growth in developing countries. Although our program is set to shift in 2011, the following research areas have been the focus of our funding:
We’re funding research that sheds light on the geographic, sectoral, and technological growth patterns that help reduce poverty. We want answers to questions such as:
- what are the engines of inclusive growth?
- what labour market conditions drive jobs and better paying work?
- what policy changes can help create jobs and ensure higher remuneration?
We’re supporting research that uncovers the equity and poverty implications of trade, competition, and regulatory policies. We want to better understand the importance of pacing and sequencing policy reforms to achieve maximum efficiency. Why? The approach helps reduce inequality and poverty. Our grantees are also examining non-economic institutions that mediate between growth, equity, and poverty.
Social protection
Our grantees are researching the types of households or individuals needing state-provided protection. They’re also examining the kinds and forms of protection needed. They’re looking for answers about the factors that strengthen states’ ability to finance social protection equitably, without negatively affecting growth.
Our priorities
We foster innovation in development research by prioritizing initiatives that:
- enrich poverty and inequality analyses by reflecting on the dimensions of poverty and their dynamics
- evaluate appropriate levels of policy action—from local, to sub-national, national, and international
- seek to illuminate or affect the political economy of policy change for equitable development
Cooperative projects
In most cases, we only fund research defined, conducted, and managed by developing-country researchers. For cooperative projects, we encourage the developing-country research institution to approach us with a concept note on behalf of the partnership.
Canadian institutions may propose an initiative in collaboration with one or more developing-country partners. Canadian university researchers should refer to IDRC’s Information for Canadian Researchers.
We are more likely to consider partnerships involving industrialized countries beyond Canada when funding from other donors or significant in-kind contributions from the industrialized-country partner institution(s) are available. The partnership should be seen as a means of strengthening IDRC-supported research in developing countries.
Our new directions
Our program is changing and new priorities are being established in 2011. We intend to keep you informed as our requirements shift and new calls for proposals are released. Please check back with us regularly for updates.
How to apply
For details on how to apply for IDRC funding, please consult our Funding page.