Association for Environment and Development Research (AEDR)

Guidelines for Invitation for Grant Applications to Organize a Conference, Seminar, or Thematic Session

1. Purpose

The Association for Environment and Development Research (AEDR) offers grants to academicians and researchers to organize seminars and conferences in India, serving as a key strategy to advance research across various social science disciplines. These seminars provide a platform for researchers, academicians, policymakers, industry partners, and other stakeholders to exchange research findings and domain-specific ideas. Additionally, seminars and conferences contribute significantly to academic output and research literature on contemporary issues while addressing future challenges. We warmly invite grant applications from eligible organizations and individuals who wish to organize events aligned with this mission.

Thematic Areas

Proposals should align with (but are not limited to) the following themes:

• Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability
• Biodiversity Conservation and Natural Resource Management
• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• Rural and Urban Development
• Green Technologies and Innovation
• Environmental Governance and Policy
• Social Dimensions of Sustainability
• Digital Technologies for Sustainable Development

2. Eligibility

• Applicants must be registered organizations, academic institutions, research bodies, or individuals with demonstrated experience in organizing academic or professional events.
• Priority will be given to proposals that align with AEDR’s thematic areas and objectives.
• Applicants should have the necessary infrastructure and resources to successfully organize the event.

3. Scope of Support

AEDR provides financial assistance of up to ₹ 100,000 to support conferences, seminars, or thematic sessions:

• Venue arrangements
• Speaker honoraria and travel
• Event publicity and materials
• Logistical support (catering, accommodation, etc.)
• Other essential expenses directly related to the event

4. Application Requirements

Applicants are required to submit a comprehensive application, which must include the following:

• Cover Letter: A brief introduction of the applicant and their intent.
• Event Proposal:
  • Title and theme of the event
  • Objectives and anticipated outcomes
  • Target audience and estimated number of participants
  • Proposed dates and venue
  • Detailed agenda or program outline
• Budget: A detailed estimated budget with justification for each item.
• Organizing Team: Names and profiles of key organizers and speakers.
• Support Documents: A No Objection Certificate from the Institution.

Please ensure your application is complete before submitting. Incomplete or late submissions will not be reviewed. Applications should be submitted at least three months prior to the Seminar/Conference date.

Submission Deadline: April 25, 2026

Applicants must submit their applications via email, including the seminar proposal, annexures, and other required documents in the prescribed format, duly forwarded by the Competent Authorities of the affiliating university/college/institute. After submitting the online application, a hard copy of the same, along with all listed enclosures, must be sent to:

Submission link: Click Here To Submit Your Application

5. Grant Approval and Accountability

Selected applicants will receive a formal sanction letter. Funds will generally be released in two instalments:

• 70% before the event, and 30% after submission of completion documents
• Grantees must submit a detailed report within 30 days after the event, including:
  • Summary of the event and outcomes
  • Attendance list and photographs
  • Financial report with receipts and expenditure details
• AEDR reserves the right to audit the use of funds and request additional documentation.

6. Terms and Conditions

• AEDR’s decision on grant approval is final and binding.
• Funds must be used solely for the approved event and purposes.
• Any change in the event plan or budget requires prior written approval from AEDR.
• Non-compliance with guidelines may affect eligibility for future grants.
• AEDR encourages dissemination of knowledge generated through supported events.
• Any publications, proceedings, or materials produced should acknowledge AEDR’s support.
• Copies of such materials must be submitted to AEDR.