Solution-oriented Research for Development (SOR4D)

The SOR4D programme is a joint initiative of the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). It supports transdisciplinary projects with solution-oriented approaches that contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and reducing poverty. The programme supports researchers from Switzerland in developing concrete innovative solutions for global challenges, together with researchers and practice partners from partner countries in the Global South. The programme is open to all disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, life sciences and health sciences. Proposals must explicitly target systemic solutions that simultaneously address several of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda. The call focuses on the topics of peace and good governance, human development, climate and environment, and sustainable economic development. The research phase lasts three or four years. Projects can also apply for additional funding with Transformation Accelerating Grants. A total of 22.4 million Swiss francs is available for the SOR4D programme. The project selection consists of a two-stage process with pre-proposals followed by full proposals.