THE Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (Searca) has announced that it is accepting proposals for its Grants for Research toward Agricultural Innovative Solutions (Grains) until August 9.

Searca Center Director Glenn Gregorio, PhD, said the offer is open to all agricultural innovators and researchers in the Philippines and Southeast Asia.

"Innovators and researchers from academe, government agencies, nonprofit organizations and the private sector across Southeast Asia are encouraged to apply," he said.

Gregorio said Searca Grains offers substantial funding to support research projects addressing critical agricultural challenges.

These include developing sustainable farming practices, building climate-resilient agriculture, advancing agricultural biotechnology, strengthening value chains, ensuring food security and creating effective agricultural policies, he added.

"Through Grains, we aim to empower researchers and innovators to develop solutions that will lead to a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector in Southeast Asia," Gregorio said.

He said successful applicants will receive funding to conduct research for up to one year.

The Searca Grains grant covers various research expenses, including personnel costs, equipment, fieldwork and knowledge dissemination activities.

Noting that proposals must demonstrate a clear focus on innovative agricultural solutions with the potential to significantly impact the region, Gregorio said Searca prioritizes those that are aligned with its mission of Accelerating Transformation Through Agricultural Innovation, also called Attain.