Sida is inviting Swedish higher education institutions to apply to host the next Development Research Conference (DevRes) – Sweden’s national forum for research on poverty reduction and global sustainable development. The conference brings together researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to strengthen the role of evidence in development policy and practice. The call closes on 30 June.
Photo: Mikael Kristenson / Unsplash
Sida is inviting Swedish higher education institutions to apply to host the next Development Research Conference (DevRes) – Sweden’s national forum for research on poverty reduction and global sustainable development. The conference brings together researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to strengthen the role of evidence in development policy and practice. The call closes on 30 June.
Sida, through its Unit for Research Cooperation, is seeking a Swedish university or university consortium to organise the upcoming Development Research Conference (DevRes), scheduled to take place between November 2026 and September 2027. DevRes is a long‑standing national meeting place for research addressing the causes of poverty, sustainable development, and societal challenges in low‑income contexts.
Purpose and relevance
In a period marked by geopolitical uncertainty, the need for strong links between research, systematic learning, and evidence‑based policy is greater than ever. DevRes aims to:
- Provide a platform for researchers to present findings and methodological approaches related to poverty reduction and global sustainable development.
- Strengthen interdisciplinary networks between Swedish researchers and partners in LMICs.
- Enable policy‑relevant dialogue between researchers, government agencies, civil society, and practitioners.
Conference format and theme
The conference should primarily be held in person, with optional digital participation depending on the organiser’s design. It may take place on a university campus, with the possibility of using Sida’s facilities for parts of the programme.
The organiser will propose an overarching theme in the application, to be finalised in dialogue with Sida. The theme should address current global and national challenges across disciplines and create structured opportunities for interaction between researchers and policy actors.
Eligibility and funding
Sida invites Swedish universities and higher education institutions to apply. A single institution will serve as the formal contracting party, but partnerships with other universities, research institutes, or organisations are encouraged.
Sida provides up to SEK 1,500,000 in funding, of which at least SEK 500,000 must be allocated to support participation of at least 15 LMIC‑based partners, covering travel, accommodation, and conference fees. Additional co‑funding from the organiser is welcome but not required.
Applications should be 2–3 pages and include a proposed theme, budget, and conference plan.
Important Dates
- 8 June 2026: Call opens
- 11 June 2026: Digital information meeting (14:00–14:30)
- 30 June 2026: Application deadline (17:00)
- By August 2026: Selected organiser notified and contract signed
- By September 2027: DevRes conference implemented