MMA invites proposals for this year’s MVR 5 million research grant

The Monetary Authority of Maldives (MMA) has officially opened the opportunity for interested parties to submit proposals for this year’s MMA Research Fund, which supports high-quality research aimed at strengthening economic and financial policy in Maldives.

The fund seeks to encourage evidence-based policymaking and promote research that contributes to the country’s economic and financial stability. A total of MVR 5 million has been allocated for this year’s cycle, with applications open for two types of grants:  

• Independent research assistance  

• Book writing assistance

The opportunity is open to private individuals, educational institutions, and think tanks. The MMA said the senior person leading each team must hold at least a Master’s degree, while PhD holders are especially encouraged to apply.

Priority will be given to proposals that align with the MMA’s mandate and offer the greatest national benefit. Focus areas include economic stability and monetary policy, financial prudence, digitalization and fintech, tourism and sustainable economy, Islamic finance, labour market and education, housing and urban development, and health and public spending. Proposals from other fields will also be accepted.

Applications are now open for the MMA Research Fund.

Funding is available under the Independent Research Grant and Book Grant categories.

???? Submission deadline: 13 October 2026
???? Contact: [email protected]

Scan the QR code to apply. pic.twitter.com/dVQzSkG8ds

— MMA (@MMA_Maldives) September 23, 2026

The first round of the fund was introduced at the MMA Research Conference in December 2024, and the inaugural cycle ran in 2025. During that round, six research proposals and one book grant were awarded.

The deadline for applications for this year’s grant is October 13. Proposals must be submitted through the MMA Research Fund Portal.

The MMA Research Grant is a financial assistance program designed to promote research in the economic, financial, and banking sectors of Maldives. It primarily supports work in areas such as monetary policy, financial stability, macroeconomics, banking, and Islamic finance. Its core purpose is to create an environment that enables rigorous research and data-driven policymaking.

Researchers, students, and academics from higher education institutions in Maldives and abroad are welcome to participate.