Cambodia & Economy: Agricultural innovation grants open to Cambodians, other Southeast Asians

The Southeast Asian Regional Centre for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) is accepting proposals for its Grants for Research towards Agricultural Innovative Solutions (GRAINS) until 9 August 2024.

The Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) is a non-profit organization established by the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO) in 1966

According to the press release from the NGO, SEARCA GRAINS provides substantial funding to support research projects that address critical agricultural challenges. These include developing sustainable farming practices, building climate-resilient agriculture, advancing agricultural biotechnology, strengthening value chains, ensuring food security, and creating effective agricultural policies.

"Through GRAINS, we aim to empower researchers and innovators to develop solutions that will lead to a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector in Southeast Asia," stressed Dr Glenn Gregorio, SEARCA Centre Director.

Innovators and researchers from academia, government agencies, non-profit organisations, and the private sector across Southeast Asia are encouraged to apply, the source said, adding that successful applicants will receive funding to conduct research for up to one year.

The SEARCA GRAINS grant will cover various research expenses, including personnel costs, equipment, fieldwork and knowledge dissemination activities, it noted.

Proposals must have a clear focus on innovative agricultural solutions with the potential to have a significant impact in the region. SEARCA will give priority to proposals that align with its mission of Accelerating Transformation Through Agricultural Innovation (ATTAIN).

"Innovation is at the heart of SEARCA's mission. SEARCA is looking for projects that not only push the boundaries of agricultural research, but also have the potential to create meaningful change for farmers and communities across Southeast Asia," affirmed Dr Gregorio.

All applications must be submitted electronically through the GRAINS Information System at https://grains.searcaapps.org/