Working with international partners: consortia and host-based schemes

A large share of the funding open to Malawian researchers flows through partnerships. There are two common shapes.

Consortium calls

Several institutions apply together, often led from Europe or North America. You join as a funded partner, bringing local expertise, data or fieldwork. Calls that require this carry a "partnership required" badge on this site. Build relationships before the call opens — consortia form quickly once a deadline is announced.

Host-based fellowships and visiting schemes

Some prestigious schemes are awarded to an institution abroad to host an overseas researcher. The host makes the application; you are the named visitor or fellow. These still belong on this site because a Malawian researcher is the intended beneficiary — but the submitting party is the host, so you need a willing partner institution first.

Practical steps

1. Identify potential partners through co-authors, alumni networks and previous collaborators.
2. Agree on roles and a rough budget split early.
3. Make sure the partnership is genuine — funders can tell a token partner from a real one.

Use the funder profiles to see which organisations fund African-led or partnership work.