IDRC-RoKS Call for Proposals 2002-2003 -------------------------------------- The Research on Knowledge Systems (RoKS) exploratory initiative of the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) is launching its second annual research competition (2002-2003). This year's theme: "Strengthening Knowledge Policy for Small States: How can small states participate more effectively in local, regional, and global knowledge partnerships?" requests concept notes in the following areas (not mutually exclusive): * What specific strategies or approaches have been shown to be suc- cessful in the improvement of gaps for knowledge and learning gaps in small states? * How can regional collaboration, for example, be designed to lever- age cooperation in knowledge networks among small states? * As the policy gaps and learning divides increase the disparities among the small and large states, what mechanisms and policies can alleviate this knowledge chasm? * What reforms in knowledge institutions are required to ensure that they are seen to be contributing to the economic and social development of small states? * How can small states participate in emerging issues affecting the health and life sciences revolution, the digital explosion, the technological trade arena, and/or the reconstruction of their scien- tific and knowledge infrastructure following conflict and social un- rest? * What are research solutions to these challenges and what specific policy prescriptions can be considered for small states? The deadline for concept note submission is March 14, 2003 (5:00pm EST). Submissions received after that date, or which are incomplete, will not be eligible for consideration. Concept notes that are quali- fied through a peer review process will be asked to submit full pro- posals for June 6, 2003. The competition will award up to seven grants, with a maximum value of CAD$ 80,000 each. For joint proposals where researchers are located in two or more countries a maximum of CAD$ 160,000 will be awarded. Fewer than seven grants may be awarded, subject to the quality of proposals received. Grants will be awarded by July 6th, 2003. Information regarding the status of your application, other than our confirmation of its receipt, will not be available. For more information and to download a complete concept note application kit, please click on: http://www.idrc.ca/roks IDRC is committed to equity and encourages applications from quali- fied women, men, visible minorities, aboriginal peoples and persons with disabilities. We thank all applicants for their interest and will ONLY contact those teams whose background, quality & feasibility best match the criteria of the award. Research on Knowledge Systems (RoKS) International Development Research Centre P.O. Box 8500 Ottawa Ontario K1G 3H9, Canada Fax: +1-613-567-7748 mailto:roks@idrc.ca http://www.idrc.ca/roks