About the Program:

The British Academy, in partnership with the Department of Science, Innovation & Technology (DSIT) and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), has launched the Innovation Fellowships scheme. This scheme aims to support early-career and mid-career researchers in the Humanities and Social Sciences to collaborate with organizations and businesses in various sectors to address challenges requiring innovative solutions.

Through the Innovation Fellowships, our researchers in the SHAPE community will be supported to create new and deeper links beyond academia, so enabling knowledge mobilisation and translation, as well as individual skills development.

Routes and Partnerships:

The Innovation Fellowships scheme offers two routes: Route A, which is Researcher-led, and Route B, which is Policy-led. The current call is for Route B, in collaboration with the FCDO, which has specific research needs and operates in a context where timely access to evidence-based analysis is crucial for success.

Areas of Focus:

The Academy and FCDO are inviting applications for Fellowships in the following areas:

1. India
2. The politics of energy transition and climate change in Africa
3. The role of technology in shaping citizen-state relations in Africa

Application Details:

• Application Deadline: 27 November 2024– 17:00 GMT

• Starting period of award: Between 1 January 2025 and 31 March 2025
• Duration of award: 12 months
• Level of award: Up to £120,000 for 12 months (with Full Economic Costing at 80%)

Read more and apply.

About the event:

Join us on day 2 of the World Without Hunger Conference for our investment forum, themed “Mobilizing Investments for Sustainable Food Security Initiatives”. This event aims to connect project owners with investors to bridge the gap in sustainable food security initiatives. The investment forum provides a platform for governments, SMEs, and startups to pitch innovative projects related to food security and sustainable agricultural practices to potential investors.

The goal is to generate investment leads and facilitate immediate post-forum follow-up. The investment forum will feature four key sessions focusing on different aspects of agribusiness and sustainable development:

• including agribusiness infrastructure parks,
• digital technology for agribusiness productivity,
• energy efficiency, and renewable energy,
• and sustainable agricultural opportunities.

Call for Proposals

We are inviting proposals for innovative projects in:

• sustainable agricultural practices,
• agro-processing,
• and food security.

Selected projects will have the opportunity to present their ideas to a diverse group of investors at the forum and gain visibility on the Invest in ACP platform for extended digital promotion.

Benefits

Presenting at the investment forum offers:

• increased visibility,
• targeted networking opportunities,
• instant feedback from industry experts,
• potential funding for projects,
• and the ability to contribute to global sustainable development goals.

Proposals not selected for presentation will still be showcased on the Invest in ACP platform for continued online promotion.

Who Can Apply?

Applications are open to:

• large-scale greenfield projects,
• medium-range enterprises,
• start-ups, and entrepreneurs in the field of sustainable agriculture.

Different types of projects will attract different types of investors, ranging from development finance institutions to venture capital and angel investors.

Program Highlights

Dates: November 2-6, 2024
Location: London (conducted in-person)
Cost: All expenses covered, including travel, lodging, and meals.

What You’ll Learn

Participants in the program will:

– Acquire a Basic Overview of Markets and Financial Concepts: Gain foundational knowledge crucial for understanding and reporting on the business world.
– Learn the Fundamentals of Business Journalism:*Develop skills in one of the most sought-after fields in media today.
– Practice Writing and Reporting Techniques: Receive hands-on instruction from seasoned Bloomberg journalists.
– Gain Insights on Working in an Inclusive Multicultural Environment: Understand the importance of representation in journalism and how to navigate diverse work settings.
– Join a Network of Mentors and Alumni: Connect with accomplished peers and alumni who can guide you in your journalism career.

Who Should Apply?

– Current Undergraduate Students: Must be studying at a university in the United Kingdom.
– Aspiring Journalists: Students with a strong interest in journalism, particularly business journalism, are encouraged to apply. A background in business is not required.
– Eligible Students: Incoming undergraduate second-year students and above, including graduating bachelor’s students.
– Diverse Backgrounds: Students from ethnically diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

Application Process

Deadline: Thursday, August 1, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. (GMT) (early applications encouraged)

Required Materials:
– Curriculum Vitae
– Unofficial Transcript: Showing grades to date.
– Writing Sample (500 words): Identify your professional role model in journalism and explain the attributes you admire most about this person and why.
– Academic Reference: Contact information for one academic reference.

Finalists will be contacted for an interview via video conferencing after the application deadline.

Take the first step toward a dynamic career in business journalism. Apply now to be part of the Bloomberg Journalism Diversity Program 2024 and join a community dedicated to excellence and diversity in journalism.

Grant Proposal Overview

The Grant Proposal Identification Form outlines the essential elements of the application process, including the objectives, scope of work, deliverables, and the indicative financial envelope. All submissions will be rigorously evaluated against pre-determined criteria as detailed in the Terms of Reference (ToR), which specifies the evaluation methodology and criteria for review and recipient selection.

Proposals submitted will enter a competitive selection process vying for the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) grant resources. The awarding of the grant is contingent upon IFAD’s internal approval and the successful completion of contractual negotiations.

Submission Requirements

To be considered for this grant, organizations must submit the following documents:

1. Project Proposal: This should be in English and follow the Concept Note template provided in Annex 4.
2. Budget Table by Activities: An Excel document outlining the financial plan.
3. Self-Certification of Eligibility for IFAD: This should be completed using the forms provided in Annex 2 or 3.
4. Non-Disclosure Agreement: A signed NDA for the received information, as specified in Annex 5.
5. Institutional Profile: A document highlighting the organization’s capability to design and implement projects that promote rural development and inclusive food systems. This should include a proven record of facilitating collaboration among stakeholders and the capacity to engage effectively with local actors in the target countries.

All documents must be submitted in PDF format, with the exception of the Excel budget table. Submissions should be sent to aprgrant1@ifad.org with “PS4FS Proposal” in the subject line. It is imperative that all required documents are included to ensure the proposal is evaluated by IFAD.

Important Deadlines

The deadline for receiving proposals is Monday, 12 August 2024 at 23:59 (UTC +2). Any questions regarding the submission can be directed to aprgrant1@ifad.org until 6 August 2024.

This grant presents a significant opportunity for organizations committed to enhancing agricultural value chains and supporting smallholder producers. By fostering stronger partnerships between the private sector and smallholder producers, the initiative aims to create more resilient and inclusive food systems that can withstand the challenges posed by climate change.

More information can be find here.

Event Overview The PeaceLab Youth Projects provide a unique platform for young people to discuss and present innovative strategies for peacebuilding. This initiative encourages participants to engage in interactive sessions, fostering an environment of shared learning and collaboration. The summit aims to equip attendees with the knowledge and tools necessary to implement positive changes in their communities.

Application Guidelines Participants are encouraged to design projects that are interactive and impactful, focusing on peacebuilding strategies that can be applied locally and globally. Projects should be non-political and unbiased, emphasizing practical solutions to real-world challenges.

Eligibility and Submission

• Applicants must be under 35 years old.
• The event will be hybrid, allowing for both in-person and online participation.
• Applications must be submitted by August 1, 2024, at 11:59 PM UTC.

Evaluation and Awards A committee will review all applications and present the top five to Nobel Peace Laureates, who will select the final winners. The evaluation criteria include the project’s relevance, cultural and social importance, commitment to sustainable peace and development, innovation, use of technology and social media, and clarity of the proposal.

Winners will receive financial support to implement their projects, making this an exceptional opportunity to make a tangible impact.

Apply now, apply here

Objectifs du Programme :

• Dispositions civiques et gouvernance politique : Renforcer les connaissances des jeunes sur la constitution, les lois, les institutions de la République et l’histoire du Sénégal, tout en promouvant le respect des droits humains, dont le droit à un environnement sain.
• Leadership des jeunes : Encourager une nouvelle génération de travailleurs avec une mentalité forte pour relever les défis du développement. Développer les capacités des jeunes au plaidoyer, à la communication pour le développement (C4D) et à l’art oratoire.
• Engagement communautaire : Améliorer la participation des jeunes dans les mouvements estudiantins, la société civile et les partis politiques. Créer un réseau de jeunes leaders engagés pour l’amour de la patrie dans les régions concernées.

Critères d’Éligibilité :

1. Âge : 18 à 35 ans.
2. Nationalité : Sénégalaise.
3. Résidence : Originaire et résident(e) dans les régions de Matam, Louga, Saint Louis, Ziguinchor, Kolda et Sédhiou.
4. Engagement : Actif dans une association de la société civile, un parti politique ou un mouvement estudiantin.
5. Disponibilité : Engagement total pendant un mois pour suivre le programme.
6. Bonne moralité et respect des règles et procédures du PNUD.

Dossiers de Candidature :

• Preuve d’engagement associatif ou politique.
• Plan SMART de post-formation.
• Certificat médical.
• Pièce d’identité.
• Curriculum Vitae.
• Lettre de motivation (300 mots max).
• Biographie (250 mots max) avec photo.
• Personne à contacter en cas d’urgence.

Conditions de Prise en Charge :

• Logistique : Transport aller-retour depuis la région d’origine.
• Hébergement : Hébergement au centre d’instruction.
• Restauration : Prise en charge complète.
• Matériel : Fourniture du matériel nécessaire.

Éthique et Conduite :

Les participants doivent respecter le code de conduite et les exigences de sécurité du Centre de Formation et du PNUD, tout en démontrant une intégrité exemplaire.

Date Limite de Soumission : Samedi 3 août 2024 à 23h59 GMT

Apply here

Application Details

• Location: Bologna, Italy
• Posted Date: July 27, 2024
• Application Deadline: August 7, 2024

Steps to Submit the Application:

1. Log in to Studenti Online.
2. Select “Admission application,” then “PhD programme,” and click “Next.”
3. Choose the PhD program you intend to apply for.
4. Complete the online application form and upload the required documents.
5. Pay the €5 admission fee using the PagoPA system
6. Click on “Submit.”

Important Note: Applications must be fully completed and submitted by the deadline to be considered.

Scholarships

• Economics: The yearly gross scholarship amount is €16,243.
• Management and Political and Social Sciences: The yearly gross scholarship amount is €17,805.

These scholarships are fully funded and provide a comprehensive stipend to support students throughout their PhD studies.

How to Apply:

Apply here

Who Can Apply?

The spotlight is open to all African youths residing in Africa, between the ages of 18 and 30. This is your chance to gain recognition for your initiatives and be celebrated for your efforts in driving sustainable development in Africa.

Why Participate?

• Recognition: Gain visibility and acknowledgment for your innovative contributions.
• Network: Connect with other young innovators and stakeholders across the continent.
• Support: Receive potential support and resources to further your initiatives.

How to Apply

Apply NOW to be part of the Young Innovators in Africa Spotlight via the following link: Young Innovators in Africa Spotlight Application.

Important Date

• Deadline for applications: 5th August

Don’t miss this opportunity to shine a light on your innovative work and join a community of young leaders making a difference in Africa. Apply today and take a step towards making a greater impact!

For more details and updates, follow us on our social media channels and stay tuned for announcements regarding the selected innovators.

Who Can Apply?

Innovators from any geography globally can apply, provided their solutions have relevance and applicability in South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. Eligible applicants include startups, universities, non-profit organizations, or for-profit companies.

The Challenge

Globally, one-third of all food produced is lost or wasted before reaching consumers, causing significant economic and environmental impacts. Smallholder farmers, particularly in emerging markets, face severe consequences due to post-harvest losses, which reduce their incomes and exacerbate food insecurity. These farmers often lack access to reliable energy for critical processes like storage, preservation, and transportation, highlighting the need for affordable and scalable innovations.

The Opportunity

The Post-Harvest Loss Innovation Prize offers more than just a financial reward. Finalists will gain access to a network of experienced industry leaders, receive media exposure, and benefit from post-investment support. The goal is to identify scalable and cost-effective solutions that not only reduce post-harvest losses but also increase farmer incomes, yields, and climate resilience.

About the Shell Foundation and Factor E Ventures

The Shell Foundation, a UK-registered charity, partners with FCDO to enhance energy access for smallholder farmers and SMEs in emerging markets. Factor E Ventures invests in innovative solutions addressing global climate and development challenges.

About the Prize

The prize seeks innovative technologies, business models, hardware, or software solutions that can reduce post-harvest losses for smallholder farmers. Solutions must demonstrate a clear path to scalability, minimal behavioral changes required for adoption, and potential for substantial impact.

Key Evaluation Criteria:

• Innovation: Novel approaches tailored to smallholder farmers.
• Solution Validation: Proven success in testing environments.
• Global Applicability: Relevance to South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa, with potential scalability.
• Gender Impact: Positive effects on female farmers.
• Scalability and Reach: Potential to empower over 1 million farmers.
• Farm-Level Implementation: Direct usability by farmers.
• Financial Traction: Evidence of financial sustainability.
• Technology Readiness Level (TRL): Preferably beyond validation stage.

Eligibility: Open to startups, universities, non-profits, and for-profit companies globally.

Submission: Submit your application by August 14, 2024

Timeline

• Request for Applications: June 26, 2024
• Application Deadline: August 14, 2024
• Application Review: August 1, 2024 – September 13, 2024
• Notification to Applicants: September 16, 2024
• Finalists Announced: September 17, 2024
• Award Announcement: September 25, 2024

Application Deadline: August 14, 2024

Apply here

Who Can Apply?

This competition is open to youth aged between 18 and 29 who are nationals of any of the Commonwealth’s 56 member countries. These include nations from Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, the Pacific, Europe, and North America.

About the Competition

Objective: The primary goal of the competition is to challenge young minds to explore the interplay between trade and climate change and to propose innovative trade policy solutions that can mitigate aspects of the climate crisis.

Essay Topic: Participants are invited to submit essays addressing the question: In what ways do you think trade and trade policy can help to address an aspect of the climate crisis in your country? Essays should identify a specific problem, explain its connection to the climate crisis, and propose how trade or trade policy could be utilized to resolve it.

Submission Requirements:

• Maximum of 2,000 words (including in-text references and footnotes, excluding reference list)
• Full referencing in any style
• Single PDF or Word file, 1.5 spacing, Times New Roman font
• Include Name, Age, Nationality, Contact Information (email, address, telephone), and CV or short bio

Important Dates:

• Start Date: 15 July 2024
• Submission Deadline: 21 August 2024
• Winners Informed: 2 September 2024

How to Submit: Send your completed essay and details to tcs@commonwealth.int by 21 August 2024. For inquiries, contact the same email address.

Judging Criteria: Essays will be judged on originality, relevance, quality of writing, and alignment with international trade policy frameworks. Entries will be blind peer-reviewed and assessed by a distinguished panel.

Prizes:

• First Prize: £1,000
• Second and Third Prizes: £500 each
• Top essays will be featured in the Trade Competitiveness Briefing Series and launched at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa in October.

Terms and Conditions: The Commonwealth Secretariat reserves the right to publish the material produced by the authors and will adhere to data protection laws.

About the Commonwealth Year of Youth

With over 60% of its 2.7 billion population aged between 15 and 29, the Commonwealth prioritizes youth empowerment. The Commonwealth Youth Programme (CYP), in partnership with the Trade Competitiveness Section, invites young people to participate in this competition, reinforcing their role in climate action and policy.

Join us in this exciting opportunity to shape a sustainable future through innovative trade and climate solutions!

Apply now, apply here