Governance Initiative (GI)
The Governance Initiative (GI) by Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab funds randomized research to improve governance, participation, and state capacity in low- and middle-income countries.
Funder: Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab
Due Dates: September 17, 2026 (LOI) | October 22, 2026 (Proposal)
Funding Amounts: Up to $50,000 for full RCTs and pilot studies; up to $30,000 for multidisciplinary grants; up to $10,000 for travel/proposal development grants.
Summary: Supports randomized evaluations to advance political participation, reduce corruption, and strengthen state capacity in low- and middle-income countries.
Key Information: Eligibility this round is limited to PhD students of J-PAL affiliates, invited researchers, and J-PAL postdocs.
Description
The Governance Initiative (GI) of the Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL) funds rigorous randomized evaluations aimed at improving governance, political participation, and state capacity in low- and middle-income countries. The initiative seeks to generate high-quality evidence on strategies to enhance citizen engagement in policy, reduce corruption and leakages, and strengthen government effectiveness. Funded research is intended to inform implementing organizations, governments, and donors, ultimately guiding policy decisions and improving development outcomes.
