The Austrian-African research network Africa-UniNet was launched in 2020 on the initiative of the Austrian Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research (BMBWF) and the Austrian Agency for Education and Internationalisation (OeAD). The Vienna University of Economics and Business is a founding member of the network. The aim is to establish a long-term and stable basis for cooperation between Austrian and African universities and research institutions. This allows the promotion of new contacts, the deepening of scientific cooperation and the development of innovative joint research projects.

The 6^th call for submissions for Africa UniNet funding is open from 01/09/2025 to 30/11/2025. The thematic focus of the projects is generally not restricted, but submitted projects contribute to the objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Please note one important information: Due to regulations set by the BMBWF, only Austrian Higher Education Institutions or Austrian Research Institutions are able to submit and coordinate a project. However, as in previous years, project consortia must consist of at least one Austrian public university or research performing institution and at least one partner institution in the Global South.

A few important key facts about the call:

• Only researchers (post docs) who are affiliated to an Austrian member institution are eligible to apply for, submit and coordinate a project.

• Researchers from at least one Austrian and one African member institution must be involved in each project. All participating institutions must be active Africa-UniNet members.

• Project duration: 24 months

• Maximum funding amount: 40,000 euros per project

• Eligible Costs: mobility costs; material costs (only if they are essential and specifically relevant for the project, max. 5,000 euros)

• Deadline: 30 November 2025, 13:00 CET

All information on the open call can be found on the Africa-UniNet website.

If you are interested in submitting a project and have any questions, please contact our representative in the network Prof. Jonas Bunte, Ph.D.