Looking for small research grants for individuals in developing countries? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re a student, early-career researcher, or someone running a community project, finding the right funding can feel overwhelming, especially in countries like Nigeria, Kenya, India, Ghana, or the Philippines, where opportunities can be competitive or limited.
This 2025 guide is here to help. We’ve compiled a practical, updated list of funding programs designed to support individuals just like you, with small grants that make a big impact.
What Are Small Research Grants?
Small research grants are funding opportunities typically ranging from $500 to $25,000, provided to individuals or small teams to carry out focused research, pilot studies, or innovative projects. These grants are especially valuable for:
-
Students working on thesis or dissertation projects
-
Early-career researchers with limited funding access
-
Independent innovators or grassroots NGOs needing seed money
-
Social entrepreneurs testing new ideas
Unlike large institutional grants, small grants are more flexible, easier to apply for, and often open to individuals without formal academic or government affiliations.
They can fund:
-
Field research
-
Data collection
-
Prototypes and pilot testing
-
Travel and equipment
-
Community impact projects
These grants are often provided by international organizations, universities, foundations, and even small NGOs that aim to support development goals in countries like Nigeria, India, Kenya, Bangladesh, and the Philippines.
Quick Tip for Applicants:
When applying, focus on clarity, impact, and feasibility — small grants aren’t about big dreams; they’re about actionable steps that solve real problems.
Who Can Apply for Small Research Grants?
One of the best things about small research grants is that they are designed for individuals, not just institutions. Many programs actively encourage applications from people in developing countries, even if you’re not affiliated with a university.
Here’s a list of who can typically apply:
Students
Undergraduate and postgraduate students conducting academic research, especially in science, health, education, agriculture, or community development.
Early-Career Researchers
Those just starting in their academic or research careers who need seed funding to build a research portfolio or test a new idea.
NGO Workers & Social Entrepreneurs
Individuals working with grassroots organizations or running small community-based initiatives that tackle real-world issues (health, education, environment, etc.).
Innovators & Problem-Solvers
Even if you’re not formally trained as a researcher, if you have a solid plan or idea that creates impact, you could qualify.
Women & Underrepresented Groups
Many grant providers prioritize women, youth, and people from marginalized communities in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Special Note:
Countries like Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, India, and the Philippines are often specifically mentioned in eligibility lists — so if you’re from one of these, you’re in a strong position to apply.
When applying, make it clear how your work will help your community — this increases your chances significantly.
Top Small Research Grants for Individuals in Developing Countries (2025 List)
Finding the right small research grants for individuals in developing countries can open doors to impactful research, innovation, and local development.
Below are 14+ handpicked funding opportunities available in 2025, with many open to applicants from Nigeria, Ghana, India, Kenya, Bangladesh, Uganda, and other developing regions.
1. The Global Innovation Fund (GIF)
-
Funding: Up to $50,000 (pilot stage)
-
Who Can Apply: Individuals and organizations
-
Focus: Innovations that improve the lives of people in developing countries
2. The Pollination Project
-
Funding: $1,000 seed grants
-
Who Can Apply: Individual changemakers
-
Focus: Social change, grassroots innovation, community improvement
3. TWAS Research Grants Programme
-
Funding: Up to $20,000
-
Who Can Apply: Scientists in low-income countries
-
Focus: Natural sciences, biology, agriculture, physics, etc.
4. International Foundation for Science (IFS)
-
Funding: Up to $15,000
-
Who Can Apply: Early-career researchers in developing countries
-
Focus: Agriculture, biodiversity, natural resources
5. AWARD (African Women in Agricultural Research and Development)
-
Funding: Varies (includes research support, mentorship)
-
Who Can Apply: Women in agriculture from Africa
-
Focus: Agricultural science, leadership, gender empowerment
6. The WISE Awards
-
Funding: $20,000
-
Who Can Apply: Individuals and teams from around the world
-
Focus: Education innovations with global impact
7. The Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future Fellowships
-
Funding: $5,000–$50,000/year
-
Who Can Apply: Women from developing countries pursuing PhDs/Postdocs
-
Focus: STEM research
8. Echoing Green Fellowship
-
Funding: $80,000 over 2 years (not strictly “small” but impactful)
-
Who Can Apply: Emerging leaders from underrepresented backgrounds
-
Focus: Social entrepreneurship
9. Global Fund for Women – Innovation Fund
-
Funding: Up to $10,000
-
Who Can Apply: Individual women and grassroots initiatives
-
Focus: Gender justice, women’s rights, leadership
10. United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF)
-
Funding: $10,000–$25,000 (sometimes more)
-
Who Can Apply: Individuals, NGOs, community leaders
-
Focus: Human rights, democracy, civic engagement
11. Nature Research Awards for Inspiring Women in Science
-
Funding: $10,000 + visibility
-
Who Can Apply: Women researchers in developing countries
-
Focus: Recognition for impact in scientific communities
12. YouthActionNet Global Fellowship
-
Funding: Varies (includes training + small grant)
-
Who Can Apply: Young social entrepreneurs (18–29)
-
Focus: Youth-led innovation and change
13. African Academy of Sciences (AAS) Research Grants
-
Funding: $5,000–$30,000
-
Who Can Apply: African researchers in STEM
-
Focus: Health, agriculture, climate science, policy
14. Women in Engineering (WiE) IEEE Grants
-
Funding: Small travel or research grants
-
Who Can Apply: Female students and researchers in developing countries
-
Focus: Engineering, technology
How to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Grant
Now that you’ve found the right grants, how do you win one?
Here are proven strategies that successful applicants from Nigeria, India, Kenya, the Philippines, and other developing countries use to stand out:
1. Start with a Clear and Feasible Project Idea
Grant reviewers love specific and actionable ideas.
Bad: “I want to help my community.”
Good: “I want to train 100 women in rural Oyo State on solar-powered irrigation systems to improve food production.”
Keep your idea simple but impactful — small grants = focused goals.
2. Show Strong Local Impact
Most small grants prioritize community benefit.
Clearly explain:
-
Who will benefit?
-
What will change?
-
How will you measure success?
Example: “This project will reduce waterborne diseases in my village by 60% in six months.”
3. Get Support Letters (Even Informal Ones)
A letter from a mentor, local leader, professor, or NGO partner boosts your credibility.
If you’re not affiliated with a university, letters can come from community chiefs, religious leaders, or even local government offices.
4. Budget Wisely and Transparently
Small grants don’t like vague or bloated budgets.
Be realistic
Break it down (e.g., “$250 for internet access, $1000 for training materials”)
Use Excel or Google Sheets, and attach it if allowed.
5. Follow Instructions Exactly
This sounds obvious, but most people fail here.
If the grant says:
-
Max 500 words? Stick to it.
-
PDF format only? Don’t upload Word docs.
-
Application closes at 5 PM UTC? Don’t wait till 5:01 PM.
Being professional from the start builds trust.
6. Apply Early, Not Last Minute
Many reviewers scan earlier applications more closely (especially when they’re fresh and fewer in number). Plus, last-minute mistakes = missed chances.
Final Advice:
Treat each application like a job interview. Be clear, honest, and show how your work will make a difference — even if it’s just in one small village, one classroom, or one neighborhood.
FAQs About Small Research Grants for Individuals in Developing Countries
Here are answers to the most common questions people have when looking for small research grants, especially from Nigeria, India, Kenya, Ghana, and similar regions.
1. How much funding can I get from a small research grant?
Most small research grants offer $500 to $25,000, depending on the funder and project scope. Some, like The Pollination Project, give $1,000, while others, like TWAS or IFS, can go up to $20,000 or more.
2. Can individuals apply, or do I need to be part of an organization?
Yes, many small grants are open to individuals, especially those running grassroots initiatives or research projects. Some may prefer university or NGO affiliation, but it’s not always required.
3. Can I apply if I’m not a student or academic?
Absolutely. Many grants are designed for community leaders, entrepreneurs, or independent researchers. As long as your project has a clear goal and impact, you’re eligible.
4. How long does it take to get a decision after applying?
It varies. Some respond in 2–4 weeks (like The Pollination Project), while others take 2–3 months, depending on review rounds and funding cycles. Always check the timeline on the grant’s official site.
5. Are there grants specifically for Africans or Asians?
Yes! Many programs target African, Asian, and Latin American countries, especially in science, education, agriculture, and development. For example:
-
AWARD focuses on African women in agriculture.
-
TWAS supports researchers across Africa and Asia.
-
GIF funds innovations in low-income countries globally.
6. Can I apply for multiple grants at once?
Yes, you can apply to several grants at the same time — and it’s encouraged! Just make sure you tailor each application specifically to the grant provider’s requirements.
Where can I find updates or new grant opportunities?
Follow platforms like:
-
Twitter and LinkedIn (many grant-giving orgs post updates there)
Start Applying for Small Research Grants Today
Getting funding doesn’t always require a million-dollar proposal or institutional backing.
As you’ve just seen, there are real opportunities out there — especially for individuals in Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, India, the Philippines, and other developing countries — to secure small research grants that can create real impact.
Whether you’re a student, early-career researcher, community innovator, or someone with a passion project that needs funding, now is the time to act.
Bookmark this page
Choose 2–3 grants from the list
Start preparing your application today
Want a PDF List of These Grants?
I’m working on a downloadable PDF version of this 2025 grant list — with deadlines, links, and application tips.
If you’d like to receive it (100% free), drop your email below or stay tuned for updates.
“Small grants, big impact.”
Never underestimate what you can achieve with even a modest amount of funding — one idea, one project, one step at a time.
Don’t wait! These small research grants for individuals in developing countries could be the stepping stone to your next breakthrough.
