GDPC Opens 2026 Research Grants Worth US$10,000 for Ethical Technology in Humanitarian Action

The GDPC Spotlight Research Grants Program funds emerging researchers to study how technology can be used ethically and responsibly in humanitarian settings, with a focus on low- and middle-income countries.

What it offers

• Awards of US$10,000 for research projects lasting up to eight months.
• Research must be completed by June 30, 2027.
• Funding supports applied research that can inform policy, planning, programming, and community action.
• Research can be conducted in English or French.

Who can apply

• University researchers based in low- and middle-income countries.

What you'll do

• Conduct original research on the principled and accountable use of technology in humanitarian action.
• Address priority topics such as:
  • Community needs and digital realities
  • ICT solution feasibility and implementation
  • Data protection in humanitarian action

How to apply

• Submit an eligibility form.
• Application deadline: July 31, 2026, 23:59 UTC.
• Research must be original; plagiarism results in immediate disqualification.

Good to know

• The program aims to expand evidence on responsible technology use in humanitarian contexts.
• Research should reflect diverse and local perspectives from low- and middle-income countries.