Applications are now open for the Mastercard Foundation and University of Cambridge Climate Resilience and Sustainability Research Fund, an international research funding opportunity designed to strengthen collaboration between African researchers and the University of Cambridge.
This prestigious fund supports high-quality, innovative research and training activities focused on climate resilience and sustainability, with an emphasis on interdisciplinary and cross-continental collaboration.
About the Research Fund
The Climate Resilience and Sustainability Research Fund aims to catalyse new partnerships and strengthen existing collaborations between researchers based in Africa and researchers at the University of Cambridge. The research focus is interpreted broadly, provided applicants can clearly demonstrate how their work contributes to climate resilience and sustainable futures.
The fund is supported by a £7.7 million investment from the Mastercard Foundation and will run from 2025 to 2030, with annual funding cycles.
Who Can Apply?
Applications must be submitted by pairs of researchers, including:
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One researcher from an African university or research institution
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One researcher from the University of Cambridge
Applicants should be at post-doctoral level or above, although equivalent research experience will be considered.
Researchers from all disciplines are encouraged to apply, including:
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Sciences
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Social sciences
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Humanities
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Arts
Innovative, multidisciplinary, and interdisciplinary research proposals are strongly encouraged, as well as proposals that include research-related training activities.
Research Focus Areas
Eligible research must relate to climate resilience and sustainability, broadly defined. Topics may include (but are not limited to):
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Climate adaptation and mitigation
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Sustainable development
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Environmental governance
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Climate justice and equity
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Resilient communities and systems
Partnership Framework
This fund is part of the Africa Climate Collaborative, a partnership between:
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The Mastercard Foundation
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University of Cambridge
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University of Ghana
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Makerere University
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University of Cape Town
The collaborative aims to empower young Africans to lead climate-resilient and sustainable futures through research, innovation, and capacity building.
Funding Duration
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Most awards will support projects lasting up to 12 months
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Funding cycles will run annually until 2029
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Final awards will support activities during 2029–2030
Application Timeline
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Second Call Deadline: 15 January 2026
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Status: Applications Open
📌 Interested applicants should review the full call details and submit their applications before the deadline.
Why Apply?
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Access funding from a globally respected foundation
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Collaborate with top African and Cambridge researchers
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Contribute to impactful research on climate resilience and sustainability
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Strengthen international academic and research networks
