The African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET) 2027 Young Leaders in Research (YLR) Grant for Early-career researchers ($15,000 in funding)

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Application Deadline: September 7, 2026

Applications are now open for the 2027 African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET) Young Leaders in Research (YLR) Grant. This is a 12-month structured program for early-career African researchers producing policy-relevant work for Africa’s economic transformation. Applicants must be African nationals or residents based in Africa, be 35 or younger by January 1, 2027, and hold or be enrolled in a master’s degree or higher in economics or a related analytical field.

The Young Leaders in Research (YLR) Grant is a 12-month grant. It supports early-career African researchers in economics and related fields to lead policy-relevant, context-driven research that advances Africa’s transformation agenda. Young Researchers receive funding, mentorship, visibility, and professional development support to elevate their research and influence policymaking on the continent.

Research themes

• Gender
Equality
• Regional
Integration
• Innovation & Digital Policy
• Green Industrial
Transformation

Requirements

• Early-career researchers 35 years old and under with a background in economics or a related field, who are African Nationals or hold permanent residency in African countries

Funding

• Up to $15,000 for data, analysis, travel, materials, and publication. A stipend of 20% can be used. A standardized budget template will be provided.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET) Young Leaders in Research (YLR) Grant