Global challenges

Six strategic challenges provide a framework through which the GCRF targets work to achieve lasting change:

  • Security, protracted conflict, refugee crises and forced displacement
  • Cities and sustainable infrastructure
  • Education
  • Food Systems
  • Global health
  • Resilience to environmental shocks and change

The challenges align closely to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and acknowledge the interconnected nature of global sustainable development challenges. 

Eight challenge leaders oversee the challenges to ensure that the GCRF can connect with those on the frontline of global development and respond to the needs and ambitions of developing countries through cutting edge disciplinary and interdisciplinary research.

Global Challenges Research Fund

We help UK and international researchers and innovators address the key issues affecting developing countries.

Newton Fund

We build research and innovation partnerships with countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America to support social and economic welfare, tackle global challenges and develop talent and careers.

Newton Fund and GCRF are drawing to a close. The International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF) is a new UK Government fund supporting research and innovation on the major themes of our time: Planet, Health, Tech, Talent. To stay on the Newton-GCRF website click Continue, if you would like to find out more about ISPF click Read more.