Call for Research and Innovation 2026

The ASEAN Centre for Active Ageing and Innovation (ACAI) invites researchers, practitioners, and innovators from ASEAN Member States to submit proposals that advance active ageing across the region. This initiative supports evidence-based research and innovative solutions that enhance the well-being and quality of life of older adults. All funded projects contribute directly to ACAI's Regional Action Plan (RAP), Pillar 1: Health and Well-being.

Submit Proposal

See 2025 Grantees

Timeline

EOI Submission

27 April 2026 - 7 June 2026

Full Proposal Submission (invitation only)

1 July 2026 - 21 July 2026

Announcement of Final Selected Proposal

18 September 2026 - 30 September 2026

EOI Submission

27 April 2026 - 7 June 2026

Submit EOI

Full Proposal Submission (invitation only)

1 July 2026 - 21 July 2026

Announcement of Final Selected Proposal

18 September 2026 - 30 September 2026

Who Can Apply

Principal Investigators (PIs) or lead applicants must be based in one of the ASEAN Member States (Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor Leste and Viet Nam). Eligible entities include:

Academic and research institutions

Government agencies and public policy institutions

NGOs, civil society, and community-based organizations

Private sector innovators or social enterprises

Individual researchers and practitioners with demonstrated expertise

Collaborative and cross-country proposals (ASEAN or non-ASEAN countries) are highly encouraged!

Overview
& Purpose

Overview & Purpose

Why Participate?

➤ Support research addressing key active ageing challenges across ASEAN

➤ Encourage interdisciplinary and cross-country collaboration

➤ Generate evidence-based recommendations for policymakers

➤ Foster innovation in long-term care, independence, and social inclusion

Research Prioritie

Proposals must address Health and Well-being as either an Exposure, Outcome, or Intermediary within one of the following four sub-themes:

➤ Sub-theme 1 – Social Connectedness and Mental Resilience in Ageing

➤ Sub-theme 2 – Digital Inclusion and Technological Innovations for Integrated Care & Self-Care

➤ Sub-theme 3 – Environmental Determinants of Healthy Ageing

➤ Sub-theme 4 – Inclusive Workspaces and Maintaining Functional Capacity

Funding Tiers

Selected proposals may receive:

Early-Career Support Grant - Up to USD 30,000

Active Ageing Seed Grant - Up to USD 50,000

Active Ageing Catalyst Grant - Up to USD 150,000

Project duration is capped at 24 months for category 1 and at 24 months for category 2 and 3.