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

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