ANeSA 2026 Research Grants: Up to CAD 1.2 Million for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Projects in Sub-Saharan Africa

<p data-start="130" data-end="523">Applications are open for the <strong data-start="160" data-end="299">Addressing Neglected Areas of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights in sub-Saharan Africa (ANeSA) 2026 Call for Letters of Interest</strong>, a major implementation research funding opportunity supporting innovative, evidence-informed and gender-transformative approaches to neglected sexual and reproductive health and rights challenges across sub-Saharan Africa.</p> <p data-start="525" data-end="640">The call represents <strong data-start="545" data-end="587">Stage 1 of a two-stage funding process</strong> for Cohort 2 of ANeSA Implementation Research Teams.</p> <p data-start="642" data-end="882">Selected applicants will work on research intended to improve the design, implementation, sustainability and effectiveness of interventions addressing underserved populations and neglected areas of sexual and reproductive health and rights.</p> <p data-start="884" data-end="912">The initiative is funded by:</p> <ul data-start="914" data-end="1022"> <li data-section-id="kcc7o3" data-start="914" data-end="957">International Development Research Centre</li> <li data-section-id="1nlbzc3" data-start="958" data-end="981">Global Affairs Canada</li> <li data-section-id="e8s275" data-start="982" data-end="1022">Canadian Institutes of Health Research</li> </ul> <p data-start="1024" data-end="1107">Up to <strong data-start="1030" data-end="1079">six grants of as much as CAD 1.2 million each</strong> are expected to be awarded.</p> <p data-start="1109" data-end="1252">At the first stage, applicants submit a Letter of Interest. Up to <strong data-start="1175" data-end="1192">12 applicants</strong> will then be invited to proceed to the Full Proposal stage.</p> <p data-start="1254" data-end="1330">Successful projects may receive funding for a period of up to <strong data-start="1316" data-end="1329">36 months</strong>.</p> <p data-start="1332" data-end="1414">The deadline for Letters of Interest is <strong data-start="1372" data-end="1413">August 23, 2026 at 23:59 Eastern Time</strong>.</p> <h2 data-section-id="19sxa39" data-start="1416" data-end="1445">About the ANeSA Initiative</h2> <p data-start="1447" data-end="1464">ANeSA stands for:</p> <p data-start="1466" data-end="1564"><strong data-start="1466" data-end="1564">Addressing Neglected Areas of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights in sub-Saharan Africa.</strong></p> <p data-start="1566" data-end="1679">The initiative is focused on improving sexual and reproductive health and rights through implementation research.</p> <p data-start="1681" data-end="1781">Its Cohort 2 call seeks research teams capable of studying and strengthening interventions that are:</p> <ul data-start="1783" data-end="1960"> <li data-section-id="1x3k1hh" data-start="1783" data-end="1796">Sustainable</li> <li data-section-id="gl2xvq" data-start="1797" data-end="1816">Evidence-informed</li> <li data-section-id="7v3ly1" data-start="1817" data-end="1840">Gender-transformative</li> <li data-section-id="vpl2ub" data-start="1841" data-end="1878">Relevant to underserved populations</li> <li data-section-id="1r1fnl4" data-start="1879" data-end="1960">Grounded in the realities of sub-Saharan African health systems and communities</li> </ul> <p data-start="1962" data-end="2052">The opportunity is therefore not simply intended to finance stand-alone academic research.</p> <p data-start="2054" data-end="2247">The central emphasis is on <strong data-start="2081" data-end="2108">implementation research</strong>, meaning research that can help understand how interventions are delivered, adapted, scaled, sustained or improved in real-world settings.</p> <p data-start="2249" data-end="2430">Projects should contribute to practical improvements in sexual and reproductive health and rights while generating evidence that can inform policy, programming and service delivery.</p> <h1 data-section-id="1lkvmu" data-start="2432" data-end="2451">Funding Available</h1> <p data-start="2453" data-end="2505">The ANeSA Cohort 2 funding opportunity will provide:</p> <p data-start="2507" data-end="2527"><strong data-start="2507" data-end="2527">Up to six grants</strong></p> <p data-start="2529" data-end="2553">with a maximum value of:</p> <p data-start="2555" data-end="2584"><strong data-start="2555" data-end="2584">CAD 1.2 million per grant</strong></p> <p data-start="2586" data-end="2618">The maximum project duration is:</p> <p data-start="2620" data-end="2633"><strong data-start="2620" data-end="2633">36 months</strong></p> <p data-start="2635" data-end="2736">At the first stage, up to <strong data-start="2661" data-end="2678">12 applicants</strong> will be shortlisted and invited to submit Full Proposals.</p> <p data-start="2738" data-end="2794">This means the competition involves two distinct stages:</p> <ol data-start="2796" data-end="2834"> <li data-section-id="16jde3v" data-start="2796" data-end="2817">Letter of Interest</li> <li data-section-id="wlwu2u" data-start="2818" data-end="2834">Full Proposal</li> </ol> <p data-start="2836" data-end="2898">Not every Letter of Interest will advance to the second stage.</p> <h2 data-section-id="14ydu6z" data-start="2900" data-end="2930">Stage 1: Letter of Interest</h2> <p data-start="2932" data-end="3041">The current application stage requires eligible Implementation Research Teams to submit a Letter of Interest.</p> <p data-start="3043" data-end="3102">The Letter of Interest serves as the first screening stage.</p> <p data-start="3104" data-end="3214">Successful applicants from this round will be notified and invited to continue into the Full Proposal process.</p> <p data-start="3216" data-end="3232">The deadline is:</p> <p data-start="3234" data-end="3265"><strong data-start="3234" data-end="3265">August 23, 2026 at 23:59 ET</strong></p> <h2 data-section-id="1gwljli" data-start="3267" data-end="3292">Stage 2: Full Proposal</h2> <p data-start="3294" data-end="3369">Applicants invited to continue will enter a second and more detailed stage.</p> <p data-start="3371" data-end="3407">According to the announced timeline:</p> <ul data-start="3409" data-end="3587"> <li data-section-id="51ytol" data-start="3409" data-end="3461">Proposal Development Workshop: February 9–11, 2027</li> <li data-section-id="1rbm5py" data-start="3462" data-end="3508">Full Proposal Call Launch: February 12, 2027</li> <li data-section-id="l4gocr" data-start="3509" data-end="3546">Full Proposal Deadline: May 2, 2027</li> <li data-section-id="1sikque" data-start="3547" data-end="3587">Final Funding Decisions: July 21, 2027</li> </ul> <p data-start="3589" data-end="3640">Only invited applicants will proceed to this stage.</p> <h1 data-section-id="7qpfjo" data-start="3642" data-end="3682">What Kind of Research Will ANeSA Fund?</h1> <p data-start="3684" data-end="3803">ANeSA is seeking <strong data-start="3701" data-end="3728">implementation research</strong> addressing neglected sexual and reproductive health and rights priorities.</p> <p data-start="3805" data-end="3911">Projects are expected to focus on interventions that are both evidence-informed and gender-transformative.</p> <p data-start="3913" data-end="4143">A gender-transformative approach generally means that projects should not simply acknowledge gender inequalities but should seek to address the norms, structures, systems or power relations contributing to unequal health outcomes.</p> <p data-start="4145" data-end="4194">The supplied call identifies five priority areas.</p> <p data-start="4196" data-end="4233">Applicants must address at least one.</p> <h1 data-section-id="1hypg63" data-start="4235" data-end="4296">Priority Area 1: Family Planning and Contraceptive Services</h1> <p data-start="4298" data-end="4340">Projects may focus on improving access to:</p> <ul data-start="4342" data-end="4492"> <li data-section-id="ag0zmr" data-start="4342" data-end="4359">Family planning</li> <li data-section-id="gsspbs" data-start="4360" data-end="4382">Modern contraception</li> <li data-section-id="p5yo1l" data-start="4383" data-end="4410">Contraceptive information</li> <li data-section-id="1941kmp" data-start="4411" data-end="4441">Reproductive-health services</li> <li data-section-id="c9b0u1" data-start="4442" data-end="4492">Appropriate services for underserved populations</li> </ul> <p data-start="4494" data-end="4595">Research in this area should examine how access, quality, delivery or sustainability can be improved.</p> <p data-start="4597" data-end="4741">Potential implementation questions may concern how health systems reach populations that remain excluded from existing family-planning services.</p> <h1 data-section-id="1c99181" data-start="4743" data-end="4798">Priority Area 2: Safe Abortion and Post-Abortion Care</h1> <p data-start="4800" data-end="4835">ANeSA supports research related to:</p> <ul data-start="4837" data-end="4902"> <li data-section-id="9cyzrr" data-start="4837" data-end="4881">Safe abortion care where legally permitted</li> <li data-section-id="1lm8vyi" data-start="4882" data-end="4902">Post-abortion care</li> </ul> <p data-start="4904" data-end="4987">The call refers to abortion and post-abortion care under the abbreviation <strong data-start="4978" data-end="4986">APAC</strong>.</p> <p data-start="4989" data-end="5057">Projects must operate within applicable legal and policy frameworks.</p> <p data-start="5059" data-end="5207">Research may examine how appropriate services can be delivered more equitably and effectively, particularly for populations facing barriers to care.</p> <h1 data-section-id="66k87t" data-start="5209" data-end="5280">Priority Area 3: Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights</h1> <p data-start="5282" data-end="5377">Another major priority is protecting sexual and reproductive health and rights for adolescents.</p> <p data-start="5379" data-end="5436">Projects may focus on both rights and access to services.</p> <p data-start="5438" data-end="5501">This area may include implementation challenges connected with:</p> <ul data-start="5503" data-end="5655"> <li data-section-id="1h5utp1" data-start="5503" data-end="5534">Adolescent access to services</li> <li data-section-id="1jixtu0" data-start="5535" data-end="5556">Youth-friendly care</li> <li data-section-id="1ccu478" data-start="5557" data-end="5570">Information</li> <li data-section-id="6u31kr" data-start="5571" data-end="5579">Rights</li> <li data-section-id="luup8t" data-start="5580" data-end="5655">Barriers created by institutions, social norms or service-delivery models</li> </ul> <p data-start="5657" data-end="5769">The call emphasizes not only health services but the broader importance of <strong data-start="5732" data-end="5768">upholding adolescent SRHR rights</strong>.</p> <h1 data-section-id="ojv6v6" data-start="5771" data-end="5822">Priority Area 4: Sexual and Gender-Based Violence</h1> <p data-start="5824" data-end="5863">ANeSA will support research addressing:</p> <ul data-start="5865" data-end="5990"> <li data-section-id="1cgslhk" data-start="5865" data-end="5913">Prevention of sexual and gender-based violence</li> <li data-section-id="ibwrx0" data-start="5914" data-end="5990">Improved services for people experiencing sexual and gender-based violence</li> </ul> <p data-start="5992" data-end="6087">This priority recognizes that effective responses require both prevention and appropriate care.</p> <p data-start="6089" data-end="6257">Projects may therefore examine systems, interventions, services and implementation approaches aimed at reducing violence and improving support for affected individuals.</p> <h1 data-section-id="fnvd42" data-start="6259" data-end="6346">Priority Area 5: Strengthening Advocacy for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights</h1> <p data-start="6348" data-end="6396">The fifth priority area focuses specifically on:</p> <p data-start="6398" data-end="6434"><strong data-start="6398" data-end="6434">Strengthening advocacy for SRHR.</strong></p> <p data-start="6436" data-end="6543">This recognizes that access to rights and services is influenced not only by clinical delivery but also by:</p> <ul data-start="6545" data-end="6638"> <li data-section-id="32m6g8" data-start="6545" data-end="6553">Policy</li> <li data-section-id="137hddb" data-start="6554" data-end="6568">Institutions</li> <li data-section-id="1am9yey" data-start="6569" data-end="6584">Public debate</li> <li data-section-id="83o33a" data-start="6585" data-end="6607">Community engagement</li> <li data-section-id="pn3aek" data-start="6608" data-end="6618">Advocacy</li> <li data-section-id="1u9dlmc" data-start="6619" data-end="6638">Rights frameworks</li> </ul> <p data-start="6640" data-end="6804">Projects may therefore investigate how advocacy strategies can be implemented more effectively to support improvements in sexual and reproductive health and rights.</p> <h1 data-section-id="1disq14" data-start="6806" data-end="6840">Focus on Underserved Populations</h1> <p data-start="6842" data-end="6938">A central element of the call is its focus on <strong data-start="6888" data-end="6937">underserved populations in sub-Saharan Africa</strong>.</p> <p data-start="6940" data-end="7091">Applicants should therefore show that the proposed work responds to groups that face meaningful barriers in accessing SRHR rights, services or support.</p> <p data-start="7093" data-end="7211">The supplied call does not provide a complete list of populations that qualify as underserved in the summary provided.</p> <p data-start="7213" data-end="7323">Applicants should consult the full Call for Letters of Interest for the detailed definitions and requirements.</p> <h1 data-section-id="8v12rg" data-start="7325" data-end="7355">Who Can Lead an Application?</h1> <p data-start="7357" data-end="7411">The call is open to <strong data-start="7377" data-end="7410">Implementation Research Teams</strong>.</p> <p data-start="7413" data-end="7437">The team must be led by:</p> <p data-start="7439" data-end="7483"><strong data-start="7439" data-end="7483">A researcher based in sub-Saharan Africa</strong></p> <p data-start="7485" data-end="7508">who is affiliated with:</p> <p data-start="7510" data-end="7561"><strong data-start="7510" data-end="7561">An eligible institution in an eligible country.</strong></p> <p data-start="7563" data-end="7698">The Principal Applicant must therefore be affiliated with an organization based in one of the eligible countries listed by the program.</p> <p data-start="7700" data-end="7803">The supplied announcement directs applicants to the full Call for Letters of Interest for the detailed:</p> <ul data-start="7805" data-end="7964"> <li data-section-id="ve8zsx" data-start="7805" data-end="7836">Team composition requirements</li> <li data-section-id="k77ink" data-start="7837" data-end="7877">Institutional eligibility requirements</li> <li data-section-id="nbpneg" data-start="7878" data-end="7901">Roles of team members</li> <li data-section-id="3hr93c" data-start="7902" data-end="7928">Partnership requirements</li> <li data-section-id="1lajwpo" data-start="7929" data-end="7964">Additional eligibility conditions</li> </ul> <p data-start="7966" data-end="8059">Applicants should therefore not rely only on the general call summary when assembling a team.</p> <h1 data-section-id="yal3rh" data-start="8061" data-end="8081">Eligible Countries</h1> <p data-start="8083" data-end="8213">Principal Applicants must be affiliated with organizations based in one of the following eligible countries in sub-Saharan Africa:</p> <ul data-start="8215" data-end="8719"> <li data-section-id="1w6bg76" data-start="8215" data-end="8223">Angola</li> <li data-section-id="16y65pi" data-start="8224" data-end="8231">Benin</li> <li data-section-id="15bg88r" data-start="8232" data-end="8242">Botswana</li> <li data-section-id="94n6or" data-start="8243" data-end="8257">Burkina Faso</li> <li data-section-id="17m8x2z" data-start="8258" data-end="8267">Burundi</li> <li data-section-id="ks6egu" data-start="8268" data-end="8278">Cameroon</li> <li data-section-id="16citsd" data-start="8279" data-end="8305">Central African Republic</li> <li data-section-id="1j41746" data-start="8306" data-end="8312">Chad</li> <li data-section-id="1fs04i1" data-start="8313" data-end="8334">Congo (Brazzaville)</li> <li data-section-id="1fbr1nw" data-start="8335" data-end="8380">Democratic Republic of the Congo (Kinshasa)</li> <li data-section-id="hidos4" data-start="8381" data-end="8400">Equatorial Guinea</li> <li data-section-id="l016i7" data-start="8401" data-end="8411">Ethiopia</li> <li data-section-id="1704qwd" data-start="8412" data-end="8419">Gabon</li> <li data-section-id="1xiwend" data-start="8420" data-end="8428">Gambia</li> <li data-section-id="1703tm1" data-start="8429" data-end="8436">Ghana</li> <li data-section-id="1xrgs3d" data-start="8437" data-end="8445">Guinea</li> <li data-section-id="1dfkkuj" data-start="8446" data-end="8461">Guinea-Bissau</li> <li data-section-id="wvk3x5" data-start="8462" data-end="8475">Ivory Coast</li> <li data-section-id="16rqwz4" data-start="8476" data-end="8483">Kenya</li> <li data-section-id="uzboq6" data-start="8484" data-end="8493">Lesotho</li> <li data-section-id="12en4uo" data-start="8494" data-end="8503">Liberia</li> <li data-section-id="xffkg4" data-start="8504" data-end="8516">Madagascar</li> <li data-section-id="1tkq1uf" data-start="8517" data-end="8525">Malawi</li> <li data-section-id="1j3zlgh" data-start="8526" data-end="8532">Mali</li> <li data-section-id="1p9zuk9" data-start="8533" data-end="8545">Mauritania</li> <li data-section-id="1wkz94h" data-start="8546" data-end="8557">Mauritius</li> <li data-section-id="1w2oavq" data-start="8558" data-end="8570">Mozambique</li> <li data-section-id="gs71s9" data-start="8571" data-end="8580">Namibia</li> <li data-section-id="16vfrr3" data-start="8581" data-end="8588">Niger</li> <li data-section-id="lp2iqf" data-start="8589" data-end="8598">Nigeria</li> <li data-section-id="6n4zjb" data-start="8599" data-end="8607">Rwanda</li> <li data-section-id="1v70r8f" data-start="8608" data-end="8617">Senegal</li> <li data-section-id="e7wk7v" data-start="8618" data-end="8632">Sierra Leone</li> <li data-section-id="a9zm5f" data-start="8633" data-end="8647">South Africa</li> <li data-section-id="34ouoi" data-start="8648" data-end="8658">Eswatini</li> <li data-section-id="1bbjgs0" data-start="8659" data-end="8672">South Sudan</li> <li data-section-id="xp4766" data-start="8673" data-end="8683">Tanzania</li> <li data-section-id="1j4cn3v" data-start="8684" data-end="8690">Togo</li> <li data-section-id="a4107k" data-start="8691" data-end="8699">Uganda</li> <li data-section-id="1tmb4k" data-start="8700" data-end="8708">Zambia</li> <li data-section-id="el3dlx" data-start="8709" data-end="8719">Zimbabwe</li> </ul> <h2 data-section-id="1vj3dud" data-start="8721" data-end="8773">Countries Subject to Additional Internal Approval</h2> <p data-start="8775" data-end="8914">The announcement notes that applications from certain countries may be subject to an <strong data-start="8860" data-end="8913">additional stage of internal approval within IDRC</strong>.</p> <p data-start="8916" data-end="8936">These countries are:</p> <ul data-start="8938" data-end="9133"> <li data-section-id="94n6or" data-start="8938" data-end="8952">Burkina Faso</li> <li data-section-id="17m8x2z" data-start="8953" data-end="8962">Burundi</li> <li data-section-id="ks6egu" data-start="8963" data-end="8973">Cameroon</li> <li data-section-id="16citsd" data-start="8974" data-end="9000">Central African Republic</li> <li data-section-id="1j41746" data-start="9001" data-end="9007">Chad</li> <li data-section-id="vxivex" data-start="9008" data-end="9042">Democratic Republic of the Congo</li> <li data-section-id="l016i7" data-start="9043" data-end="9053">Ethiopia</li> <li data-section-id="1704qwd" data-start="9054" data-end="9061">Gabon</li> <li data-section-id="1j3zlgh" data-start="9062" data-end="9068">Mali</li> <li data-section-id="1w2oavq" data-start="9069" data-end="9081">Mozambique</li> <li data-section-id="16vfrr3" data-start="9082" data-end="9089">Niger</li> <li data-section-id="lp2iqf" data-start="9090" data-end="9099">Nigeria</li> <li data-section-id="1bbjgs0" data-start="9100" data-end="9113">South Sudan</li> <li data-section-id="a4107k" data-start="9114" data-end="9122">Uganda</li> <li data-section-id="el3dlx" data-start="9123" data-end="9133">Zimbabwe</li> </ul> <p data-start="9135" data-end="9213">Applicants from these countries are not described as automatically ineligible.</p> <p data-start="9215" data-end="9272">Rather, additional internal review or approval may apply.</p> <h1 data-section-id="f1qtcd" data-start="9274" data-end="9292">Project Duration</h1> <p data-start="9294" data-end="9322">Funded projects may run for:</p> <p data-start="9324" data-end="9343"><strong data-start="9324" data-end="9343">Up to 36 months</strong></p> <p data-start="9345" data-end="9484">Applicants should therefore design implementation research that can realistically deliver meaningful results within a three-year timeframe.</p> <p data-start="9486" data-end="9541">A strong project is likely to require a clear plan for:</p> <ul data-start="9543" data-end="9667"> <li data-section-id="1iiej37" data-start="9543" data-end="9568">Research implementation</li> <li data-section-id="19if3r" data-start="9569" data-end="9593">Partnership management</li> <li data-section-id="pyvmvx" data-start="9594" data-end="9615">Evidence generation</li> <li data-section-id="gyf9ei" data-start="9616" data-end="9626">Analysis</li> <li data-section-id="1fx5301" data-start="9627" data-end="9650">Knowledge translation</li> <li data-section-id="y88qnh" data-start="9651" data-end="9667">Sustainability</li> </ul> <p data-start="9669" data-end="9771">The precise expectations for work plans and budgets should be verified in the full call documentation.</p> <h1 data-section-id="1t8bvqv" data-start="9773" data-end="9796">Funding Organizations</h1> <p data-start="9798" data-end="9860">The ANeSA initiative is funded by three Canadian institutions.</p> <h2 data-section-id="um2k5a" data-start="9862" data-end="9906">International Development Research Centre</h2> <p data-start="9908" data-end="9995">IDRC supports research and innovation intended to address major development challenges.</p> <p data-start="9997" data-end="10139">For this call, it serves as an important institutional platform for supporting locally grounded implementation research in sub-Saharan Africa.</p> <h2 data-section-id="1205e8e" data-start="10141" data-end="10165">Global Affairs Canada</h2> <p data-start="10167" data-end="10269">Global Affairs Canada contributes to Canada&#8217;s international development and foreign policy activities.</p> <p data-start="10271" data-end="10358">Its participation reinforces the international development dimension of the initiative.</p> <h2 data-section-id="9xnn70" data-start="10360" data-end="10401">Canadian Institutes of Health Research</h2> <p data-start="10403" data-end="10474">CIHR is one of Canada&#8217;s principal health-research funding institutions.</p> <p data-start="10476" data-end="10574">Its involvement highlights the research and health-systems orientation of the funding opportunity.</p> <h1 data-section-id="1skisp4" data-start="10576" data-end="10605">Two-Stage Selection Process</h1> <p data-start="10607" data-end="10680">Applicants should understand the full selection timeline before applying.</p> <h2 data-section-id="6v0vjc" data-start="10682" data-end="10713">Stage 1: Letters of Interest</h2> <p data-start="10715" data-end="10783">The current stage is open to eligible Implementation Research Teams.</p> <p data-start="10785" data-end="10831">Applicants submit their Letter of Interest by:</p> <p data-start="10833" data-end="10852"><strong data-start="10833" data-end="10852">August 23, 2026</strong></p> <p data-start="10854" data-end="10907">Up to 12 applicants will be selected to move forward.</p> <h2 data-section-id="c7kfou" data-start="10909" data-end="10943">Notification of Stage 1 Results</h2> <p data-start="10945" data-end="10988">Applicants are scheduled to be notified on:</p> <p data-start="10990" data-end="11011"><strong data-start="10990" data-end="11011">December 18, 2026</strong></p> <h2 data-section-id="13rzmyn" data-start="11013" data-end="11045">Proposal Development Workshop</h2> <p data-start="11047" data-end="11143">Applicants invited to Stage 2 will participate in a Proposal Development Workshop scheduled for:</p> <p data-start="11145" data-end="11168"><strong data-start="11145" data-end="11168">February 9–11, 2027</strong></p> <p data-start="11170" data-end="11285">This suggests that shortlisted applicants will receive additional preparation before submitting the final proposal.</p> <h2 data-section-id="oz37i6" data-start="11287" data-end="11309">Full Proposal Stage</h2> <p data-start="11311" data-end="11356">The formal Full Proposal call will launch on:</p> <p data-start="11358" data-end="11379"><strong data-start="11358" data-end="11379">February 12, 2027</strong></p> <p data-start="11381" data-end="11411">The Full Proposal deadline is:</p> <p data-start="11413" data-end="11428"><strong data-start="11413" data-end="11428">May 2, 2027</strong></p> <h2 data-section-id="9044m8" data-start="11430" data-end="11455">Final Funding Decision</h2> <p data-start="11457" data-end="11526">Applicants are expected to be notified of final funding decisions on:</p> <p data-start="11528" data-end="11545"><strong data-start="11528" data-end="11545">July 21, 2027</strong></p> <h1 data-section-id="bsfces" data-start="11547" data-end="11566">Complete Timeline</h1> <p data-start="11568" data-end="11621">Applicants should note the following important dates:</p> <ul data-start="11623" data-end="12102"> <li data-section-id="gkkg1l" data-start="11623" data-end="11653">Call launched: June 29, 2026</li> <li data-section-id="ij3rjf" data-start="11654" data-end="11710">English-focused information webinars: July 15–16, 2026</li> <li data-section-id="qiqroa" data-start="11711" data-end="11747">French-only webinar: July 23, 2026</li> <li data-section-id="zrjtb" data-start="11748" data-end="11828">Deadline for questions to receive a response before submission: August 9, 2026</li> <li data-section-id="14ykq9v" data-start="11829" data-end="11875">Letter of Interest deadline: August 23, 2026</li> <li data-section-id="14dl95r" data-start="11876" data-end="11924">Stage 1 result notification: December 18, 2026</li> <li data-section-id="51ytol" data-start="11925" data-end="11977">Proposal Development Workshop: February 9–11, 2027</li> <li data-section-id="e1ke8c" data-start="11978" data-end="12023">Full Proposal Call opens: February 12, 2027</li> <li data-section-id="1lzjqzv" data-start="12024" data-end="12061">Full Proposal deadline: May 2, 2027</li> <li data-section-id="oe88iu" data-start="12062" data-end="12102">Final funding decisions: July 21, 2027</li> </ul> <h1 data-section-id="1f273el" data-start="12104" data-end="12126">Information Webinars</h1> <p data-start="12128" data-end="12207">The initiative organized several information sessions for potential applicants.</p> <p data-start="12209" data-end="12230">The sessions held on:</p> <ul data-start="12232" data-end="12263"> <li data-section-id="1ypk93g" data-start="12232" data-end="12247">July 15, 2026</li> <li data-section-id="7w5ojz" data-start="12248" data-end="12263">July 16, 2026</li> </ul> <p data-start="12265" data-end="12290">reached maximum capacity.</p> <p data-start="12292" data-end="12411">Because those sessions were delivered mainly in English, the organizers offered a third and final session in French on:</p> <p data-start="12413" data-end="12430"><strong data-start="12413" data-end="12430">July 23, 2026</strong></p> <p data-start="12432" data-end="12453">The session ran from:</p> <p data-start="12455" data-end="12495"><strong data-start="12455" data-end="12495">9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time</strong></p> <p data-start="12497" data-end="12540">and did not include English interpretation.</p> <p data-start="12542" data-end="12604">Attendance at a webinar is <strong data-start="12569" data-end="12585">not required</strong> in order to apply.</p> <h1 data-section-id="hkd5a4" data-start="12606" data-end="12634">Frequently Asked Questions</h1> <p data-start="12636" data-end="12695">ANeSA also provides an FAQ page for prospective applicants.</p> <p data-start="12697" data-end="12763">The supplied information states that the FAQ is updated regularly.</p> <p data-start="12765" data-end="12887">Applicants should therefore consult it when preparing their Letter of Interest, particularly if they have questions about:</p> <ul data-start="12889" data-end="13008"> <li data-section-id="1cjzdtx" data-start="12889" data-end="12902">Eligibility</li> <li data-section-id="119pevh" data-start="12903" data-end="12921">Team composition</li> <li data-section-id="1h2h3pt" data-start="12922" data-end="12931">Funding</li> <li data-section-id="1mvoynx" data-start="12932" data-end="12960">Institutional requirements</li> <li data-section-id="1xraz9o" data-start="12961" data-end="12985">Application procedures</li> <li data-section-id="etnb07" data-start="12986" data-end="13008">Proposal development</li> </ul> <p data-start="13010" data-end="13139">Because the FAQ may be updated during the application period, applicants should review the most recent version before submitting.</p> <h1 data-section-id="2b5ulm" data-start="13141" data-end="13162">Contact Information</h1> <p data-start="13164" data-end="13220">Applicants with questions can contact the ANeSA team at:</p> <p data-start="13222" data-end="13243"><strong data-start="13222" data-end="13243"><a class="decorated-link cursor-pointer" rel="noopener" data-start="13224" data-end="13241">SRHR-SDSR@idrc.ca</a></strong></p> <p data-start="13245" data-end="13385">The call indicated that questions should ideally have been sent by <strong data-start="13312" data-end="13330">August 9, 2026</strong> to receive a response before the application deadline.</p> <p data-start="13387" data-end="13468">Applicants may still consult the call documents and FAQ for unresolved questions.</p> <h1 data-section-id="plflsp" data-start="13470" data-end="13484">How to Apply</h1> <p data-start="13486" data-end="13544">To apply for this funding opportunity, you’ll need an account on SurveyMonkey Apply. If you don’t have an account yet, or need help with your existing one, please refer to their <a href="https://www.idrc.ca/sites/default/files/2021-05/Survey%20Monkey%20Apply%20-%20General%20Applicant%20Guide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Account setup guide</a>.</p> <p data-start="13873" data-end="13960">Applicants should avoid waiting until the final day to establish or test their account.</p> <h4 style="text-align: center;" data-start="13873" data-end="13960"><strong><a href="https://idrc-crdi.smapply.io/prog/anesa-cohort2-irt/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">APPLY HERE</a></strong></h4> <h1 data-section-id="1xqj6xi" data-start="13962" data-end="13984">Application Deadline</h1> <p data-start="13986" data-end="14021">The Letter of Interest deadline is:</p> <p data-start="14023" data-end="14072"><strong data-start="14023" data-end="14072">Sunday, August 23, 2026 at 23:59 Eastern Time</strong></p> <p data-start="14074" data-end="14107">This is the deadline for Stage 1.</p> <p data-start="14109" data-end="14185">Applicants invited to Stage 2 will face the later Full Proposal deadline of:</p> <p data-start="14187" data-end="14202"><strong data-start="14187" data-end="14202">May 2, 2027</strong></p> <p data-start="14204" data-end="14245">The two deadlines should not be confused.</p> <h1 data-section-id="3zoxsx" data-start="14247" data-end="14286">Preparing a Strong Letter of Interest</h1> <p data-start="14288" data-end="14459">The complete required format should be taken from the official call, but applicants can prepare strategically around the priorities clearly identified in the announcement.</p> <h2 data-section-id="68xv0w" data-start="14461" data-end="14514">1. Demonstrate Fit With at Least One Priority Area</h2> <p data-start="14516" data-end="14580">The project must address one or more of ANeSA’s five priorities.</p> <p data-start="14582" data-end="14676">Do not describe a broad SRHR project without explaining precisely which priority it addresses.</p> <h2 data-section-id="1v9yon2" data-start="14678" data-end="14731">2. Make the Implementation Research Question Clear</h2> <p data-start="14733" data-end="14787">ANeSA is specifically seeking implementation research.</p> <p data-start="14789" data-end="14864">Applicants should therefore go beyond asking whether an intervention works.</p> <p data-start="14866" data-end="14905">They should consider questions such as:</p> <ul data-start="14907" data-end="15191"> <li data-section-id="1edgsp8" data-start="14907" data-end="14959">How can the intervention be delivered effectively?</li> <li data-section-id="yonh82" data-start="14960" data-end="14991">What prevents implementation?</li> <li data-section-id="1734cnk" data-start="14992" data-end="15016">How can it be adapted?</li> <li data-section-id="k393ki" data-start="15017" data-end="15068">What conditions are necessary for sustainability?</li> <li data-section-id="42k20r" data-start="15069" data-end="15131">How can successful interventions be integrated into systems?</li> <li data-section-id="171ku1x" data-start="15132" data-end="15191">How can uptake among underserved populations be improved?</li> </ul> <h2 data-section-id="8teq62" data-start="15193" data-end="15235">3. Show Gender-Transformative Potential</h2> <p data-start="15237" data-end="15306">The call specifically emphasizes gender-transformative interventions.</p> <p data-start="15308" data-end="15444">Applicants should clearly explain how the project responds to gender inequalities rather than treating gender as a superficial variable.</p> <h2 data-section-id="1scomhd" data-start="15446" data-end="15484">4. Focus on Underserved Populations</h2> <p data-start="15486" data-end="15549">Describe the population being served and the barriers it faces.</p> <p data-start="15551" data-end="15697">The proposal should make clear why the population is underserved and why current systems or interventions have not adequately addressed its needs.</p> <h2 data-section-id="7pyw19" data-start="15699" data-end="15748">5. Demonstrate Institutional and Team Capacity</h2> <p data-start="15750" data-end="15896">Because the call targets Implementation Research Teams, applicants should show that their team has the expertise required to deliver the research.</p> <p data-start="15898" data-end="15928">Relevant capacity may include:</p> <ul data-start="15930" data-end="16052"> <li data-section-id="9jy2pv" data-start="15930" data-end="15955">Implementation research</li> <li data-section-id="1j4cij7" data-start="15956" data-end="15962">SRHR</li> <li data-section-id="16lu1mt" data-start="15963" data-end="15980">Gender analysis</li> <li data-section-id="1k1u3c2" data-start="15981" data-end="15997">Health systems</li> <li data-section-id="83o33a" data-start="15998" data-end="16020">Community engagement</li> <li data-section-id="32m6g8" data-start="16021" data-end="16029">Policy</li> <li data-section-id="b1a4" data-start="16030" data-end="16052">Research methodology</li> </ul> <p data-start="16054" data-end="16127">The exact required team composition should be confirmed in the full call.</p> <h2 data-section-id="nepb9s" data-start="16129" data-end="16164">6. Consider Sustainability Early</h2> <p data-start="16166" data-end="16213">The initiative seeks sustainable interventions.</p> <p data-start="16215" data-end="16314">Applicants should therefore explain how the work could remain useful after the project period ends.</p> <h2 data-section-id="sd15pl" data-start="16316" data-end="16356">7. Connect Research With Evidence Use</h2> <p data-start="16358" data-end="16460">The strongest projects should not produce evidence that remains isolated within academic publications.</p> <p data-start="16462" data-end="16518">Applicants should consider how findings could influence:</p> <ul data-start="16520" data-end="16631"> <li data-section-id="cfwok" data-start="16520" data-end="16535">Health policy</li> <li data-section-id="1m7a9ux" data-start="16536" data-end="16554">Service delivery</li> <li data-section-id="korvl3" data-start="16555" data-end="16567">Programmes</li> <li data-section-id="13bv880" data-start="16568" data-end="16588">Community practice</li> <li data-section-id="pn3aek" data-start="16589" data-end="16599">Advocacy</li> <li data-section-id="jjxoau" data-start="16600" data-end="16631">Health-system decision-making</li> </ul> <h1 data-section-id="1pyvqvk" data-start="16633" data-end="16652">Why ANeSA Matters</h1> <p data-start="16654" data-end="16724">Sexual and reproductive health and rights remain closely connected to:</p> <ul data-start="16726" data-end="16921"> <li data-section-id="c2kxch" data-start="16726" data-end="16741">Health equity</li> <li data-section-id="158ipcv" data-start="16742" data-end="16759">Gender equality</li> <li data-section-id="n13b44" data-start="16760" data-end="16774">Human rights</li> <li data-section-id="1r4n98x" data-start="16775" data-end="16797">Adolescent wellbeing</li> <li data-section-id="uvgmfs" data-start="16798" data-end="16815">Maternal health</li> <li data-section-id="1od6ztr" data-start="16816" data-end="16837">Violence prevention</li> <li data-section-id="wgsvmg" data-start="16838" data-end="16863">Access to contraception</li> <li data-section-id="14rv381" data-start="16864" data-end="16887">Health-system quality</li> <li data-section-id="vmyv2c" data-start="16888" data-end="16921">Social and economic development</li> </ul> <p data-start="16923" data-end="17040">However, significant gaps remain in many contexts, particularly among populations facing multiple forms of exclusion.</p> <p data-start="17042" data-end="17270">ANeSA seeks to address those gaps through research focused on <strong data-start="17104" data-end="17122">implementation</strong>, recognizing that evidence about what should work is not enough if effective interventions cannot be delivered equitably, sustainably and at scale.</p> <p data-start="17272" data-end="17480">The programme therefore creates an opportunity for researchers and institutions based in sub-Saharan Africa to lead studies directly connected to the realities of communities and health systems in the region.</p> <h1 data-section-id="dqxzbp" data-start="17482" data-end="17511">Important Facts at a Glance</h1> <p data-start="17513" data-end="17622"><strong data-start="17513" data-end="17528">Initiative:</strong> Addressing Neglected Areas of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights in sub-Saharan Africa</p> <p data-start="17624" data-end="17647"><strong data-start="17624" data-end="17641">Abbreviation:</strong> ANeSA</p> <p data-start="17649" data-end="17697"><strong data-start="17649" data-end="17667">Current stage:</strong> Stage 1 – Letters of Interest</p> <p data-start="17699" data-end="17743"><strong data-start="17699" data-end="17711">Funding:</strong> Up to CAD 1.2 million per grant</p> <p data-start="17745" data-end="17776"><strong data-start="17745" data-end="17766">Number of grants:</strong> Up to six</p> <p data-start="17778" data-end="17822"><strong data-start="17778" data-end="17802">Stage 2 invitations:</strong> Up to 12 applicants</p> <p data-start="17824" data-end="17861"><strong data-start="17824" data-end="17845">Project duration:</strong> Up to 36 months</p> <p data-start="17863" data-end="17905"><strong data-start="17863" data-end="17881">Research type:</strong> Implementation research</p> <p data-start="17907" data-end="17947"><strong data-start="17907" data-end="17928">Geographic focus:</strong> Sub-Saharan Africa</p> <p data-start="17949" data-end="18009"><strong data-start="17949" data-end="17981">Letter of Interest deadline:</strong> August 23, 2026 at 23:59 ET</p> <p data-start="18011" data-end="18073"><strong data-start="18011" data-end="18061">Full Proposal deadline for invited applicants:</strong> May 2, 2027</p> <p data-start="18075" data-end="18110"><strong data-start="18075" data-end="18096">Funding decision:</strong> July 21, 2027</p> <p data-start="18112" data-end="18142"><strong data-start="18112" data-end="18124">Contact:</strong> <a class="decorated-link cursor-pointer" rel="noopener" data-start="18125" data-end="18142">SRHR-SDSR@idrc.ca</a></p> <h1 data-section-id="fsb6xx" data-start="18144" data-end="18156">Conclusion</h1> <p data-start="18158" data-end="18367">The <strong data-start="18162" data-end="18205">ANeSA 2026 Call for Letters of Interest</strong> represents a major funding opportunity for sub-Saharan Africa-based researchers and institutions working to strengthen sexual and reproductive health and rights.</p> <p data-start="18369" data-end="18521">With <strong data-start="18374" data-end="18432">up to six grants worth as much as CAD 1.2 million each</strong>, the initiative will support implementation research projects lasting up to three years.</p> <p data-start="18523" data-end="18580">Funded work must address at least one of five priorities:</p> <ul data-start="18582" data-end="18793"> <li data-section-id="15kitm9" data-start="18582" data-end="18624">Family planning and contraceptive access</li> <li data-section-id="zpeu7f" data-start="18625" data-end="18687">Safe abortion where legally permitted and post-abortion care</li> <li data-section-id="kop923" data-start="18688" data-end="18742">Adolescent sexual and reproductive health and rights</li> <li data-section-id="1kd7m1z" data-start="18743" data-end="18777">Sexual and gender-based violence</li> <li data-section-id="yh6fcn" data-start="18778" data-end="18793">SRHR advocacy</li> </ul> <p data-start="18795" data-end="18907">Projects should be sustainable, evidence-informed, gender-transformative and focused on underserved populations.</p> <p data-start="18909" data-end="19128">The call is specifically designed around locally led research. Principal Applicants must be researchers based in sub-Saharan Africa and affiliated with eligible institutions in one of the listed participating countries.</p> <p data-start="19130" data-end="19311">The process begins with a Letter of Interest, after which up to 12 applicants will be invited to develop Full Proposals. Ultimately, up to six teams are expected to receive funding.</p> <p data-start="19313" data-end="19390">The <strong data-start="19317" data-end="19389">Letter of Interest deadline is August 23, 2026 at 23:59 Eastern Time</strong>.</p> <p data-start="19392" data-end="19624">Applicants should consult the official Call for Letters of Interest and FAQ carefully, particularly for the detailed team-composition, institutional and proposal requirements that are not fully specified in the summary announcement.</p> <p data-start="19392" data-end="19624"> <p data-start="19392" data-end="19624">To know more about this opportunity, <a href="https://idrc-crdi.ca/en/funding/call-letters-interest-addressing-neglected-areas-sexual-and-reproductive-health-and-0" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>CLICK HERE</strong></a>.</p> <p data-start="19392" data-end="19624"> <p data-start="19392" data-end="19624">To explore more grants opportunity, <strong><a href="https://opportunitiesforyouth.org/?s=grants">VISIT HERE</a></strong>.</p> <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://opportunitiesforyouth.org/2026/08/18/anesa-2026-research-grants/">ANeSA 2026 Research Grants: Up to CAD 1.2 Million for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Projects in Sub-Saharan Africa</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://opportunitiesforyouth.org">Opportunities for Youth</a>.</p>