Call for Proposals: "3 Big Ideas on…"

The Institute for Economic Development is pleased to invite researchers and practitioners to contribute to its new flagship series “3 Big Ideas on: [Development Theme].” This series aims to turn complex research into practical, scalable recommendations for tackling key development challenges. 

Academic research in development economics generates valuable insights, but its complexity and length often make it hard for policymakers and practitioners to use. This series seeks to make this research more accessible for development impact.

Guidelines

The Institute welcomes proposals that identify and elaborate on up to three concrete ideas to address well-defined and pressing development challenges. Proposals should:

• Leverage rigorous evidence, including meta-analyses and case studies, to support claims of efficacy and scalability.
• Be explicitly prescriptive, focusing on actionable interventions.
• Provide an analysis of implementation requirements, addressing contextual factors critical for replication or adaptation.
• Be written for policy leaders, development practitioners, and organizations (including the World Bank Group) ready to implement bold, evidence-based solutions.

Priority themes

1. Sustainable and equitable job creation
2. SME potential for growth in low and middle-income countries
3. Climate adaptation in agriculture and food systems
4. Access to and use of (renewable) energy
5. Green financing for development
6. Inclusive and resilient tourism
7. Industrial policies that catalyze growth and drive innovation
8. Agribusiness for growth and job creation in Africa
9. Domestic tax revenue generation
10. Inclusive use of digital tools and payment infrastructure

Innovative ideas and solutions in other areas will also be considered.

Ready to turn insights into impact? 

Submit your proposal here and join a movement transforming development policy. Deadline for submissions: March 15, 2025.