The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a tender, with submissions due by 9 January 2026, for a comparative analysis of research resource allocation methods aimed at enhancing research systems in Southern Africa that deliver socio-economic impact. The initiative responds to growing recognition that national research systems and funding frameworks must evolve to effectively measure, incentivise, and reward impact-focused research. Currently, there is limited evidence on successful models for reforming funding mechanisms in the region that both incentivise socio-economic impact and provide opportunities for early-career researchers while supporting gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) objectives.
The study seeks to address these gaps by identifying, analysing, and comparing approaches used internationally and locally to measure, incentivise, and reward academic research beyond traditional publication metrics. A central focus will be on enabling research that drives social impact, providing Southern African countries with context-sensitive evidence to guide policy and funding decisions. Comparative insights from both developed and developing countries will inform recommendations tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities in Southern Africa.
The findings will be used to provide actionable recommendations to the FCDO and its partners across the region to strengthen national research funding mechanisms. These recommendations will focus on promoting early-career researchers and integrating GESI principles into research systems, ensuring that funding strategies support inclusive and socially impactful outcomes.
Organisations wishing to apply are expected to have expertise in national and domestic research funding allocation within Southern Africa, combined with knowledge of international best practices. Teams must demonstrate experience in collecting, synthesising, and communicating research findings to stakeholders such as governments and higher education institutions, with particular value placed on experience addressing structural barriers for marginalised groups.
Preference will be given to bidders with established networks and contacts in Southern Africa, enabling efficient evidence gathering within the project’s short timeframe. Research consortia that bring together international and local expertise, meaningfully including Southern African researchers as principal or co-investigators, are highly encouraged. Partnerships between UK and African institutions will be especially welcomed to ensure locally informed, impactful research outcomes.
