MMA opens applications for research grants
24 ސެޕްޓެމްބަރު 2026 | ބުރާސްފަތި 15:24The Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) has introduced a 5 million Rufiyaa research grant aimed at encouraging high-level academic publications and studies concerning the nation's economic and financial sectors. This funding opportunity is open to lead researchers holding a Master’s degree or higher, with the deadline for proposal submissions set for October 13, 2026.
MMA Head Office. | Raajje MV
Applications are now open for the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) Research Fund grants for the year 2026.
The Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) has announced that proposals are now being accepted for independent research and book-writing grants under its newly established research fund. A total of MVR 5 million has been allocated for this initiative.
The objective of these grants is to encourage the production of research papers and books that facilitate evidence-based policymaking. Specifically, the initiative aims to foster high-quality, innovative research dedicated to promoting economic and financial stability in the Maldives.
The MMA stated that the fund is open to individuals, educational institutions, and think tanks. However, the authority requires that team leads for any submitting group must hold a Master’s degree or higher. Furthermore, the authority encourages individuals with PhDs to apply for the fund.
The Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) has stated that the research grants will primarily focus on areas aligned with the authority's objectives and the nation's most pressing needs. However, applications from other fields will also be considered. Some of the key areas identified by the authority include:
Economic stability, monetary policy, and inflation dynamics
Financial Sector Resilience, Legislation, and Innovation
Digitalization, Fintech, and Financial Inclusion
Tourism and a Sustainable Economy
Islamic Finance and Sustainable Development
The Labor Market and the Education Sector
Housing, Urban Development, and Spatial Economics
Healthcare sector, public expenditure, and social protection
The MMA Research Fund was officially inaugurated during the authority's Research Conference in December 2024. The fund's inaugural round was launched in 2025. During this first cycle, grants were awarded to six research proposals and one book project.
Applications for the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) Research Fund remain open until October 13, 2026. Interested parties can submit their proposals through the official MMA Research Fund portal.
