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Research Grants
Join our mailing list to learn about ECA’s research and grant opportunities.
All research grants funded by ECA are required to have a focus on producing actionable evidence which can inform ECD programs and policies throughout the Emirate of Abu Dhabi while advancing the science of ECD in a culturally relevant manner. ECA funds research grants in two main areas :
- An open call for proposals
The research team works closely with our partner government to prioritize 2-3 key research areas, leading to a highly competitive call for proposals. ECD experts from various disciplines review and select the top proposals, awarding one-year grants for multi-disciplinary, multi-sectoral projects. Over the past two years, 18 projects have been funded, totaling AED 7.9 million.
- Critical issues grant funding
ECA grants research funding for critical issues affecting the lives of young children and the ecosystem , driving academic inquiry and innovation. To date, we have awarded grants for five key issues, totaling AED 25 million.
Timeline of 2024-2025 Annual Grant Cycle
Key dates
Times listed are in Abu Dhabi time.
F.A.Q.
If you join our mailing list at www.eca.gov.ae/research/grants you will receive emails regarding any new opportunities, grants, and initiatives related to research in ECD.
To apply for a grant you can sign up or log in at www.eca.gov.ae/research/grants to start the process, then fill out the form by clicking “Apply for Grant”. Please find a detailed guide with visuals of the steps to applying for a grant here.
If you have any technical issues when applying please email research@eca.gov.ae, make sure to email before the grant deadline.
Research funded by ECA must go through the PIs institution at a minimum and should go through the Department of Health IRB for research related to health. And in accordance with these regulations data related to research must be collected and stored within the UAE. In cases that international researchers or universities are involved, the research must go through the DOH IRB and abide by regulations related to data privacy.
The ECA Research Team will help support funded research through this process and communicate with local entities when needed.
If you have other question regarding research, grants or other opportunities at ECA please contact research@eca.gov.ae and you will receive a reply within 3-5 business days.