ICIMOD South Asian Network for Development and Environmental Economics Grant Program 2025

The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) is currently accepting applications for its South Asian Network for Development and Environmental Economics (SANDEE) Grant Program 2025. This program supports early-career researchers in exploring the economic dimensions of environmental and climate challenges in South Asia and the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH).

📝 About the Program

The SANDEE Grant Program at ICIMOD funds evidence-based research that connects economics, environment, and sustainable development in fragile mountain and river basin systems.

🎁 Benefits of the Program

• Funding Range: USD 20,000–30,000
• Project Duration: Up to 2 years
• Higher-value grants are available for:
  • Multidisciplinary projects
  • Research spanning two or more countries
  • Studies addressing transboundary environmental issues

✅ Eligibility Criteria

The program is open to:

• Early-career researchers
• Research institutions working in South Asia or the HKH
• Teams proposing multidisciplinary or multi-country studies
• Applicants with a strong background in environmental economics or related fields

📅 Application Process

Step 1: Read the Official Call

• Review SANDEE’s detailed guidelines to understand thematic priorities and evaluation criteria.

Step 2: Prepare a Concept Note

A strong concept note should include:

1. Title and summary of the proposed research
2. Problem statement with clear economic relevance
3. Research questions and hypotheses
4. Justification (Why this issue matters for South Asia/HKH)
5. Methodology (economic/statistical/ecological analysis)
6. Study area and regional relevance
7. Expected outcomes and policy relevance
8. Team expertise and institutional capacity
9. Budget range (USD 20,000–30,000)
10. Timeline (up to 2 years)

Step 3: Submit via the Official Portal or Email

• Follow SANDEE’s submission format as instructed in the call.

Step 4: Wait for Shortlisting

• Shortlisted applicants will be invited to submit a full proposal and may attend proposal development workshops.

📌 Application Deadline

31 December 2025

🌐 Application Portal

• View details of the program on the ICIMOD website.
• Apply for the program via the official application form.

This is a fantastic opportunity for researchers passionate about addressing environmental and climate challenges in South Asia and the HKH region. Don't miss the chance to make a meaningful impact!

• Funding Range: USD 20,000–30,000
• Project Duration: Up to 2 years
• Higher-value grants are reserved for:
  • Multidisciplinary projects
  • Research spanning two or more countries
  • Studies addressing transboundary environmental issues