About RIDGE
The Research Initiative on Development, Governance and Economy (RIDGE) invites young researchers in Bangladesh to participate in an exciting new opportunity to generate policy-relevant insights and build the skills required to produce high-quality research that informs the design of policies aimed at improving the lives of Bangladeshi citizens.
RIDGE is a unique collaboration between four prominent local think tanks: BRAC Institute of Governance and Development (BIGD), Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), Research and Policy Integration for Development (RAPID), and Policy Research Institute (PRI). Funded by UK International Development from the UK government, RIDGE aims to nurture the next generation of social science researchers in Bangladesh through funding, mentorship, and training.
Focus on Secondary Data and Policy Impact
RIDGE particularly emphasises projects that explore new and innovative uses of secondary data, including novel sources such as administrative data from government agencies or private institutions. This focus enables young researchers to build their capacity to handle complex datasets, apply cutting-edge methodologies, and address critical policy questions.
We believe young researchers bring fresh perspectives, energy, and a willingness to experiment—qualities essential for working with novel secondary data.
Your research must focus on policy-relevant issues within Bangladesh. We welcome proposals in areas such as:
- Labour Markets and Employment
- Monetary Policy, Finance, and Banking
- Fiscal Policy and Public Finance
- International Trade and Development
- Economic Growth and Productivity
- Poverty and Inequality
- Energy, Environmental Economics, and Climate Change
- Technology and Digital Economy
- Health Economics and Human Capital
- Gender, Care Work, and Education
- Governance and Institutions
- Agricultural Productivity, Food Security, and Nutrition
Eligibility at a Glance
All researchers must be Bangladeshi nationals aged 35 or below, currently residing in Bangladesh, and remain in the country until the assignment is completed. Eligible candidates include current students (bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD), graduates, and those employed by higher education or research institutions in Bangladesh. Independent researchers may also apply, though preference is given to those with institutional affiliations.
For more details on eligibility, please refer to the ‘Guidelines for Applicants’ document provided at the end of this page.
Application process
The RIDGE grant application involves three stages:
- Initial Screening: Applicants are required to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) outlining their proposed research idea.
- Proposal Development Stage: Shortlisted applicants will be paired with an expert mentor to refine their research idea and develop a full proposal. Participants will also attend workshops to strengthen their proposals.
- Final Selection: Completed proposals will be evaluated by external reviewers and through a presentation to the Executive Directors of the consortium partners. Up to five proposals will be selected for funding.
For more details on the application process, please refer to the ‘Guidelines for Applicants’ document provided at the end of this page.
Comprehensive Support for Awardees
Successful applicants will benefit from:
- Funding: Up to BDT 12,50,000 (inclusive of VAT and tax) to support their research project.
- Mentorship: One-on-one guidance from experienced mentors during the proposal development phase and throughout the course of the research.
- Workshops: Access to curated training sessions on proposal development, research methodology, and academic writing.
