Established in 1970, IDRC is a Canadian Crown corporation that funds research and innovation within and alongside developing regions to drive global change. IDRC supports researchers and institutions in the Global South to find solutions to pressing challenges, aiming to promote growth, reduce poverty, and drive large-scale positive change.
Interested applicants should regularly consult the IDRC funding page for open calls and specific application guidelines. Each call for proposals provides detailed instructions on submission requirements, evaluation criteria, and deadlines. Applications typically involve submitting an expression of interest or a full proposal, depending on the stage of the call. Prospective applicants are encouraged to sign up for funding alerts to receive notifications about new opportunities.
Additional Benefits:
- IDRC offers support to strengthen the research and innovation capacities of institutions and researchers in developing countries.
- Grantees become part of a global network of researchers and institutions, facilitating collaboration and knowledge sharing.
- IDRC-funded research often contributes to policy development and implementation, addressing critical development challenges.
Funding Amount
IDRC offers various funding opportunities, including competitive grants and institutional grants. The funding amounts vary depending on the specific call and project requirements. For instance, past initiatives have allocated up to CAD 4 million for regional hubs focusing on climate change and health.
Target
Researchers, non-profit organisations, and higher education institutions based in developing countries, particularly those in the Global South. IDRC supports projects that align with its strategic priorities, including climate-resilient food systems, global health, education and science, democratic and inclusive governance, and sustainable inclusive economies.
Closing Date
Application deadlines vary depending on the specific call for proposals.
Focus Areas
Climate resilience, Health, Education, Gender equality, and Democratic governance.
Eligibility Criteria
- Organisational Status: Applicants must be legally registered or incorporated entities, such as research institutions, universities, think tanks, non-profits, or consortia of these organisations.
- Geographical Focus: Organisations should be headquartered in eligible countries within the respective regions targeted by the specific call.
- Project Alignment: Proposed projects must align with IDRC’s thematic priorities and the specific objectives outlined in the call for proposals.

