LARGER GRANTS IN 2025

We are excited to have several funding streams for larger grants coming up in the next few months. Each will be announced on our website and LinkedIn pages, but we want to give a sneak preview at this stage

We already have a grant scheme with the FIG Foundation open, with applications due by 11 May. This has funding of up to 20,000 euro available for research projects focussing on developing countries and Artificial Intelligence – a matter of considerable importance to all of us.

Next will be a joint announcement for projects to be funded by ABF, in a scheme in partnership with the Property Research Trust. This will open for applications in May, with a closing date in July. The scheme will seek applications from researchers whose work will further knowledge and public benefit which will positively impact at least two of the following areas:

• Improving land tenure and property rights
• Improving the resilience and sustainability of settlements
• Providing additional insights into urban-related development challenges
• Improving skills and capacity among the local land and property profession to apply best practice to land and property matters
• Providing additional pathways to the effective use of technology to support effective land and property management

We have assigned a budget of GBP 10,000 to this scheme

And in June we are planning to open applications for an Urban KickStart programme. We have assigned a budget of GBP 15,000 to this scheme, which is being developed in conjunction with a number of international experts. The scheme will do this by providing opportunities for young graduates from the urbanising countries of Africa and Asia to undertake research or other assignments that can help meet the needs of vulnerable urban communities for access to land and adequate housing on affordable terms. Successful applicants will also receive mentoring from international experts with expertise relevant to the product scope and location.

ABF Trustees plan that this will not be the end of schemes to enhance sustainable survey and land management skills in developing countries through professional education and capacity building for the lasting benefit of local communities.