Moving Minds Alliance 2026–2027 Early Childhood Development in Crisis Research Fellowship: Funding for Researchers in Low- and Middle-Income Countries

Applications are now open for the Moving Minds Alliance (MMA) 2026–2027 Early Childhood Development in Crisis (ECDiC) Research Fellowship Program, an initiative designed to support local researchers working to improve the lives of young children and caregivers affected by crisis.

This fellowship aims to strengthen research and evidence on children aged 0–8 years and their caregivers living in crisis contexts, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Through financial support and collaborative opportunities, the program empowers researchers to conduct field-relevant studies that influence policies, programs, and interventions supporting vulnerable families.

The Early Childhood Development in Crisis Research Fellowship seeks to elevate the voices and expertise of local researchers who are closely connected to the communities they study. By supporting locally driven research, the program contributes to building stronger evidence and solutions for children living in challenging environments.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive several forms of support to help them successfully conduct their research and expand its impact.

These benefits include:

• A one-time stipend of up to $5,000 to support research activities

• 12 months of tailored mentorship and guidance while carrying out field-relevant studies

• Opportunities to collaborate with a global network of researchers focused on early childhood development

• Engagement with the MMA Research Forum team to strengthen research outputs and amplify findings

This combination of financial assistance, mentorship, and collaboration helps fellows produce impactful research that can influence programs supporting young children and families in crisis settings.

Focus Areas

The fellowship supports research related to Early Childhood Development in Crisis contexts, particularly focusing on:

• Young children aged 0–8 years

• Caregivers supporting children in fragile or emergency settings

• Evidence that can inform policy, humanitarian response, and development programs

Researchers are encouraged to design studies that address real-world challenges affecting children and families living in crisis conditions.

Application Deadline

The deadline to apply for the Moving Minds Alliance 2026–2027 ECDiC Research Fellowship Program is:

March 31, 2026

Applicants are encouraged to carefully review the program requirements before submitting their applications.

How to Apply

Interested researchers should review the official Terms of Reference and submit their applications through the link below.

Download the Terms of Reference.

For more Fellowship Opportunities , Visit OFY here.