IAU-OAD Astronomy-for-Development Grants

The IAU Office of Astronomy for Development (IAU-OAD) awards competitive grants to projects that use astronomy to promote sustainable development. Grants support initiatives across the globe in areas such as astrotourism, mental health, education and skills development, and climate adaptation. The programme funds multiple projects each year through an annual call for proposals and uses a multi-stage selection process with external reviewers and steering committee approval.

Grant funding for project implementation (shared pool of EUR 111,161 in 2026) and support through the OAD selection and development process.

The call for proposals is open to anyone worldwide.

Annual call for proposals with a two-stage application (stage 1 shortlist to stage 2), project strengthening with the OAD, independent expert review and final approval by the OAD Steering Committee.