Consortia are invited to submit pilot proposals by 31 MAY 2024.
We’re seeking novel, innovative, collaborative, and diverse consortia to co-design and embark on groundbreaking Science Missions to tackle complex sustainability challenges head-on.
This Global Call aims to select up to five Pilot Missions to test the proposed model, thoroughly examining their execution, outcomes, and impact. Successful Pilots will set the stage for adapting and expanding the model.
The selected Pilots will demonstrate the value of truly collaborative transdisciplinary efforts in helping fast-track the achievement of the SDGs and accelerating societal transformation to sustainability.
We invite novel collaborative consortia of scientists and scientific organizations, policymakers, non-governmental organizations, communities, and the private sector, working on the cutting edge of identifying solutions for complex sustainability challenges, to co-design targeted Science Missions for sustainability over an initial 18-month period. The call is open to bids for Pilot Missions worldwide, but we are strongly encouraging Pilots led by institutions located in the Global South to apply.
To implement Science Missions successfully, significant funding is needed. Collaborating strategically across funding sectors and pooling resources is crucial to maximize impact and efficiency. Early engagement of funders in the mission co-design process is critical. Initially, we aim to secure up to $250,000 per Pilot Mission the 18-month co-design phase. Following co-design, our objective is to secure full mission implementation funding.
While several funders have shown interest, no funding is currently secured. A high-level selection committee made up of eminent individuals will choose shortlisted consortia, after which matchmaking events will be organized later this year to connect shortlisted Pilots with interested funders and discuss funding needs. The goal is to launch five Pilot Missions in the first quarter of 2025, contingent on securing funding for the co-design phase.
The application process includes the submission of an expression of interest, the estimated length of which is about 2000 words, and only shortlisted expressions of interest will be invited to develop a full bid.
Learn more about the call, its scope, the application and selection processes, timeframe and financial support by visiting the homepage.
The deadline for submitting an expression of interest by 31 May 00:00 UTC.
The ISC organized two virtual Q&A sessions to address questions about the call. If you are interested in applying and missed the sessions, we highly encourage you to watch the recordings and access important resources:
Read more about Introducing the ISC expert group on oceans: Providing science-based inputs for the UN Ocean Conference
Read more about Six science advice workshops to be guided by INGSA-Asia in 2025
Read more about Rethinking science: A mission-driven approach to tackle global sustainability challenges
