Supporting granting councils in Laos and Cambodia to advance an inclusive science, technology and innovation ecosystem in Southeast Asia

Developing a strong regional science, technology and innovation (STI) ecosystem in Southeast Asia has been identified as a priority and represents an important opportunity to support regional development outcomes. However, there is still very little research collaboration between the member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, and an important limiting factor is a regional asymmetry in terms of STI investment and capacity. Cambodia and Laos are emblematic of this challenge, but both countries have recently developed policies and strategies aiming to focus on developing research and innovation funds and science granting councils, which are crucial for funding, managing and guiding research, as well as developing international research partnerships.

This project will help establish and formalize science granting councils (SGCs) in Cambodia and Laos, equipping them with the necessary structures, policies and operational skills, including strategies for securing long-term funding, based on demands expressed by the relevant ministries in both countries. It will enhance the capabilities of researchers and institutions, enabling them to better design, carry out and oversee research projects, thus building the funding absorption capacity within the research ecosystems. The program will build strong regional and international connections for these new SGCs, particularly within Southeast Asia and through collaborative research calls.

It will also rely extensively on engagement with key stakeholders associated with the STI systems in Laos, Cambodia and across Southeast Asia. It will include practical training on issues such as research management and grant administration. A competitive regional small grant scheme will be launched alongside peer-learning events to encourage knowledge sharing. Ultimately, the program expects to contribute significantly towards having fully functional SGCs in both countries, staffed by skilled personnel, attracting diverse sources of funding and actively engaging in regional and international research.