This programme scheme is a joint initiative by the SNSF and the Swiss Agency for Development and Co-operation (SDC). It aims at supporting high-quality research projects concerning problems relevant to disadvantaged countries. The scheme “Research Partnerships with Developing Countries” encourages a better relationship between researchers in Switzerland and the South and contributes to strengthening the scientific potential of countries in the South. It focuses on the importance of knowledge and strengthening research capacities in developing countries. For this reason, the programme and its evaluation process contain elements to support both scientific quality as well as development-relevant aspects.
The research partnerships are integrated into the general research funding of the SNSF and are thus open to all scientific disciplines. Research institutes in Switzerland and developing countries are eligible to participate in the scheme. Applications for funding may only be submitted in response to specific funding calls.
For the current programme phase 2008-2011, a total of CHF 12 million is available and includes the following instruments:
Joint Research Projects
Applications for funding of a Joint Research Project may only be submitted by researchers of public research institutions in Switzerland and developing countries. The Research Partnerships are therefore open to all scientific disciplines as long as the projects concentrate on problems specific to developing countries.
Preparatory Grants
For the preparation of research funding applications, researchers can request so-called Preparatory Grants. These should facilitate an efficient elaboration of applications by enabling the research partners to meet in Switzerland or in the country of the South partners.
Valorisation Grants
VG are designed to increase the impact and sustainability of research results generated from the funded JRP.
The programme "Research Partnership with Developing Countries" will be discontinued after the current programme phase and be replaced with the "Fund for Research on Global Issues".