APPLY FOR

RESEARCH GRANT PROPOSAL 2026

ABOUT DIGO BIKAS INSTITUTE

Digo Bikas Institute (DBI) is a research and advocacy organisation committed to promoting ecological sustainability and social equity at both policy and community levels. DBI believes that Nepal and the world can develop meaningfully by identifying and applying alternative ways of meeting human needs without harming nature or fellow human beings.

DBI’s vision is of an ecologically sound, socially just, and prosperous society that endures for future generations. Its mission is to undertake research and action that stimulates informed discussion and advances alternative, locally rooted solutions to global problems.

PURPOSE OF THE GRANT

The DBI Research Grant is established to support former DBI fellows, trainees, and programme participants in conducting rigorous, mission-aligned research. The grant seeks to build a thriving community of scholar-practitioners who continue to advance DBI’s principles beyond their formal association with the Institute.

By investing in its alumni, DBI aims to expand the evidence base for ecological sustainability and social equity, foster peer learning, and amplify local voices in national and global policy discussions.

GRANT AT A GLANCE

Funder Digo Bikas Institute (DBI)
Grant Amount NPR 30,000 per research
Total Number of Grants 3 (2 for DBI alumni + 1 will be open to all)
Application Rolling basis
Review Review by the DBI Grant Committee
Institutional Affiliation Applicants may be affiliated with academia, civil society, government, or the private sector, or may be independent researchers.
Research Alignment Proposed research must clearly align with DBI’s principles
Eligibility DBI alumni as well as who meet DBI’s principles
No Active DBI Employment Current full-time DBI staff are not eligible.
Ethics  & Integrity Applicants must adhere to ethical research standards and DBI’s values of integrity, transparency, and inclusiveness.
Grant Duration Up to 3 months per project
Submission Mode Online portal / KoboToolbox

THEMATIC AREAS OF FOCUS

Proposals may address any research question that is substantively grounded in one or more of DBI’s core thematic areas. Interdisciplinary and cross-cutting research is strongly encouraged. Proposals on emerging or cross-cutting themes are welcome, provided they demonstrate clear alignment with DBI’s vision and mission.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year. Proposals received before the 15th of any month will be considered in the immediately following quarterly review cycle. 

Application Link:

https://ee.kobotoolbox.org/single/CfSj97Yg

Required Documents:

  • Digo Bikas Institute (Research Grant Form) (link available above)
  • Research Proposal (maximum 10 pages, excluding annexes) (see outline below)
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • A cover letter

Research Proposal Outline:

  1. Title and Abstract (max 300 words)
  2. Problem Statement and Research Rationale
  3. Research Objectives and Questions
  4. Methodology and Research Design
  5. Alignment with DBI Principles and Thematic Areas
  6. Expected Outputs, Outcomes, and Impact
  7. Dissemination and Advocacy Plan
  8. Workplan and Timeline
  9. Ethical Considerations

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and invited for a presentation, and final selections will be made based on a competitive evaluation process.