The Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) has opened applications for research grants under its Research Fund for the year 2026.
With a total budget of MVR 5 million, the central bank is accepting proposals for both independent research grants and book-writing grants.
Priority will be given to research areas aligned with the MMA’s core mandates and those of critical national importance. These include economic stability, monetary policy, financial sector resilience, digitalisation, and fintech. Additionally, the fund covers research into tourism, sustainable economics, Islamic finance, the labour market, housing, healthcare, and public expenditure.
According to the MMA, the fund is open to individuals, academic institutions, and think tanks. However, the lead researcher of any submitting team must hold a Master’s degree or a higher qualification.
The MMA stated that the objective of these grants is to encourage the production of research papers and books that facilitate evidence-based policymaking. A key goal of the fund is to foster high-quality, innovative research within the Maldives that contributes to promoting economic and financial stability.
The authority officially launched the Research Fund at its Research Conference in December 2024. Following the inaugural round in 2025, the MMA awarded grants for six research proposals and one book-writing project.
The deadline for applications for this year’s grant cycle is October 13. Interested parties are requested to submit their proposals through the MMA Research Fund portal.
