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The Al Qasimi Foundation’s Seed Grants provide modest start-up funding (maximum 50,000 AED) to conduct applied research or to pilot initiatives that fall beyond the scope of its Doctoral and Faculty Research programs. Individuals and organizations in the United Arab Emirates and overseas are eligible to apply, and proposals are welcomed from a wide range of disciplines and professional fields. Grant funds are allocated based on the proposal’s budget and may be used for a variety of purposes. The ICOS Participatory Urban Development Lab is an example of a successful Seed Grant project.While the call for proposals is broad, anticipated outcomes should benefit the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah in tangible ways. Long-term sustainability may also be considered based on the specified project goals. Up to two Grants are awarded annually. Grant recipients are expected to write one to two policy papers at the conclusion of their project.Grant ObjectivesProvide opportunities for individuals or organizations to conduct applied research or pilot initiatives that will have a positive impact on the Ras Al Khaimah community.Encourage interdisciplinary thinking and solutions to public policy issues.Foster high quality research and development projects that strengthen the local capacity of Ras Al Khaimah and the United Arab Emirates.Promote collaboration among individuals, businesses, academic institutions, and other government and non-government entities in Ras Al Khaimah, the United Arab Emirates, and overseas.Grant EligibilityThe minimum eligibility criteria for prospective Seed Grant applicants:Demonstrate collaboration between at least two different organizations, one of which must be in the United Arab Emirates.Illustrate capacity to successfully undertake the proposed project or applied research based on prior experiences.Leverage matching funds, expertise, or other in-kind resources to achieve anticipated goals and outcomes.Focus on the United Arab Emirates, and specifically, the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. If the proposal includes other locations Ras Al Khaimah must be a significant emphasis and beneficiary of the project.Address an education, public health, urban planning/development or closely related public policy issue relevant to Ras Al Khaimah and the United Arab Emirates.Demonstrate how the proposal aligns with the Al Qasimi Foundation’s 2013-2018 Research, Capacity Development, or Community Engagement strategies.Address sustainability considerations and anticipated next steps for once Seed Grant funding ends (as applicable).Selection CriteriaIf applicants meet the minimum eligibility criteria noted above, they are encouraged to apply for a Seed Grant. The Grant is awarded based on merit as measured by a proposal’s relevance and overall strength. General sustainability and potential for impact are also considered in the evaluation process. The Al Qasimi Foundation Directors and Advisory Board serve as the evaluation and selection committee.The Grant review process is competitive. While the Al Qasimi Foundation receives many excellent and high-quality proposals, a maximum of two Seed Grants are available each year. The proposals chosen for funding represent the innovative ideas that align best with the Al Qasimi Foundation’s overall mission to aid in the social, economic, and cultural development of Ras Al Khaimah.Application ProcessThe deadline for the current application cycle is March 1, 2014. To apply, interested individuals and organizations should submit the following materials to info@alqasimifoundation.rak.ae:Introductory cover letter addressing reason(s) for interest in the Seed Grants, a brief summary of the collaborators involved (including cumulative expertise and skills relevant to the proposal), and how the proposal aligns with the Al Qasimi Foundation’s work and mission.CV or resume for all project leaders outlining their educational backgrounds, publications, work experience, honors and awards, and professional association affiliations.Proposal that includes (1) an overview of the project and its relevance, (2) literature review or appropriate background information, (3) proposed methodology, and (4) expected results.Anticipated timeline for the proposed project, including key milestones and associated deliverables.Comprehensive, detailed budget of all expected costs and a list of facilities, special equipment, or other resources necessary to implement the research or pilot project. The budget and resource list should indicate who is contributing each line item, and the Al Qasimi Foundation’s financial contribution should not exceed 50,000 AED.Letter of recommendation from a colleague (or organization if applying as an institution), which must indicate the length of time, extent, and nature of their relationship with the applicant.All materials submitted for funding consideration will automatically become the property of the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research and will not be returned to the sender.Application DeadlineThe deadline for the current application cycle is March 1, 2014 and proposal review will commence shortly thereafter. Funding will be available no later than June 1, 2014 for successful proposals.