Seed funding to support international research collaborations
LSE offers two flagship funding schemes to help researchers build and grow international collaborations. Together, these funds help LSE researchers connect globally, co-create high-impact research, and strengthen strategic international alliances. 
Global Research Fund (GRF)
The GRF provides seed funding for individual LSE academics to develop international collaborations with nominated research partners. It offers targeted support for establishing or strengthening research links, enabling collaborative activities that lead to joint publications and future grant applications.
Funding available: Up to £5,000 per project.
Sample activities:
- Joint research development activities that often do not receive financial support at the earliest stages, e.g. on-site meetings, seminars and, workshops;
- Inbound and outbound visits as part of reciprocal agreement; Invited lectures and seminars to establish or enhance contacts between groups and individuals;
- New network membership that further raises the departmental/institutional international profile through targeted engagement with specialist alliances or networks.
Download the GRF application form here.
View the GRF guidance.
Applications are now open.
Get in touch with global@lse.ac.uk if you have any questions.
Global Research Consortium Fund (GRCF)
A pilot scheme under the GRF umbrella, the GRCF supports larger interdisciplinary teams - with at least three LSE Principal Investigators - to develop ambitious international consortia tackling complex global challenges.
Projects should outline a clear pathway to outcomes such as: applying for external funding, producing high-quality co-authored publications or policy papers, establishing strategic research partnerships or networks, and creating collaborations that support impact through engagement with end users, policymakers, industry, and NGOs.
Funding available: Up to £10,000 per project.
Sample activities:
- Networking events fostering research collaboration;
- Intensive workshops for brainstorming, co-creation, and developing large-scale interdisciplinary research programmes;
- Inbound and outbound visits as part of reciprocal agreement; invited lectures and seminars to establish or enhance contacts between groups;
- Proposal development targeting external funding opportunities;
- Focused thematic conferences on cutting-edge interdisciplinary research, showcasing the work of the consortia and connecting with potential funders, such as foundations, investors, and government agencies.
Download GRCF Application Form here.
View GRCF Guidance.
Applications are now open.
Get in touch with global@lse.ac.uk if you have any questions.
GRF and GRCF key dates:
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Term
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Opening date
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Closing date
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Outcomes
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Project start date
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Winter Round
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October 2025
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Friday 30 January 2026
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From 16 March 2026
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No later than 1 June 2026
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Spring Round
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February 2026
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Friday 15 May 2026
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From 1 June 2026
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No later than 1 August 2026
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Both schemes are administered by the International Strategy and Academic Partnerships (ISAP) team in Philanthropy and Global Engagement (PAGE), and overseen by Professor Susana Mourato, LSE's Vice President and Pro-Vice Chancellor (Research).
Frequently asked questions about GRF and GRCF can be found here.
Global Research Fund Panel
We work with a comprehensive panel of senior faculty members from different areas across LSE to review applications and provide expert advice. The panel members are (surname A-Z):