The African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET) has opened applications for the Young Leaders in Research (YLR) Grant 2027, a 12-month structured research programme supporting early-career African researchers whose work contributes to evidence-based policymaking and Africa’s economic transformation.
The programme is designed for emerging researchers who are committed to producing policy-relevant research that can contribute to better economic policies and development outcomes across the continent.
For African researchers building careers in economics, public policy and related analytical disciplines, the YLR Grant provides an opportunity to develop research that connects evidence with real-world policy challenges.
ACET Young Leaders in Research Grant 2027
The Young Leaders in Research programme is part of ACET’s broader work to strengthen Africa’s capacity to generate and use high-quality evidence for economic transformation.
Through the 12-month programme, selected young researchers will have an opportunity to develop policy-oriented research while strengthening their position within Africa’s research and policy ecosystem.
The programme is particularly relevant to researchers interested in ensuring that African development policies are informed by evidence generated by researchers working within the continent.
ACET is inviting applications from early-career researchers who are already developing expertise in economics or related analytical fields and who have a strong interest in research that can inform policy.
Who Can Apply?
The ACET Young Leaders in Research Grant 2027 is open to applicants who meet the programme’s eligibility requirements.
Applicants must:
- Be an African national or resident based in Africa.
- Be 35 years old or younger as of January 1, 2027.
- Hold or be currently enrolled in a Master’s degree or higher.
- Have an academic background in economics or a related analytical field.
- Demonstrate an interest in producing policy-relevant research that contributes to Africa’s economic transformation.
The eligibility requirements make the programme particularly suitable for young economists, researchers and policy analysts who are developing their careers and want to strengthen the policy relevance of their research.
What Is the Young Leaders in Research Programme?
The YLR Grant is structured as a 12-month programme for early-career African researchers.
The initiative focuses on supporting researchers who use evidence to address important questions affecting Africa’s economic transformation. Participants are expected to engage with research that has relevance beyond academia and can contribute to policy discussions.
For emerging researchers, this emphasis on policy relevance can help bridge the gap between academic research and the practical needs of governments, development organisations, policymakers and other stakeholders.
The programme also provides a platform for young African researchers to contribute their perspectives to discussions about the continent’s economic future.
Research and Policy Impact
Africa faces complex economic and development challenges requiring locally relevant evidence and innovative policy responses.
Research produced by African scholars and researchers can play an important role in helping policymakers understand these challenges and identify effective solutions.
The ACET Young Leaders in Research programme therefore seeks researchers who are interested in producing work with a clear connection to policy.
Applicants should consider how their research interests relate to Africa’s economic transformation and how evidence from their work could potentially contribute to policymaking or broader development discussions.
Why Early-Career Researchers Should Consider Applying
The transition from postgraduate study into an independent research career can be challenging. Opportunities that provide structured support and a policy-oriented research environment can help young researchers develop their professional profiles.
The YLR Grant offers an opportunity for eligible African researchers to focus on research while contributing to conversations around economic transformation.
The programme may be particularly valuable for researchers who want to:
- Develop policy-relevant research skills.
- Strengthen their research profile.
- Produce evidence addressing African development challenges.
- Connect academic research with policymaking.
- Contribute to debates about Africa’s economic transformation.
- Build experience as an emerging African research leader.
Application Deadline
The deadline for the ACET Young Leaders in Research Grant 2027 is:
September 7, 2026
ACET has specifically clarified that the relevant deadline is September 7, 2026, correcting information that previously indicated September 7, 2025.
Applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their applications early rather than waiting until the final day.
How to Apply for the ACET YLR Grant
Interested applicants can access the application through the link provided by ACET.
Apply for the ACET Young Leaders in Research Grant 2027
Applicants who require additional information can contact the programme team by email at [email protected].
About the African Center for Economic Transformation
The African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET) works on issues related to Africa’s economic transformation and development. Its work includes research, policy engagement and initiatives aimed at supporting African countries to achieve sustainable and inclusive economic transformation.
The Young Leaders in Research Grant aligns with this mission by supporting emerging African researchers producing evidence that can contribute to policy and economic development across the continent.
Final Thoughts
The ACET Young Leaders in Research Grant 2027 presents an opportunity for young African researchers to strengthen their research careers while contributing to evidence-based policy discussions.
Eligible applicants must be African nationals or residents based in Africa, be aged 35 or younger by January 1, 2027, and hold or be pursuing a Master’s degree or higher in economics or a related analytical discipline.
With applications closing on September 7, 2026, eligible researchers interested in policy-oriented research are encouraged to review the requirements and submit their applications before the deadline.
Opportunity: ACET Young Leaders in Research Grant 2027
Duration: 12 months
Eligibility: African nationals or residents based in Africa
Age: 35 or younger by January 1, 2027
Academic level: Master’s degree or higher
Field: Economics or related analytical fields
Focus: Policy-relevant research and Africa’s economic transformation
Deadline: September 7, 2026
