ICARS provides funding and technical assistance to low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) to generate evidence for policy and practice, whilst supporting the development of National Action Plans.
Countries requesting support from ICARS are equal partners and collaborators on ICARS projects. To enable active participation now and in the future, when appropriate, financial support is provided to support in-country capacity and capability strengthening. Any LMIC on the DAC (OECD Development Assistance Committee) list is eligible to apply for a funded partnership with ICARS if they provide a strong government commitment to addressing AMR.
When considering activities and engagement, ICARS will take into account:
See below the framework for ICARS’ projects and the associated guidelines and templates corresponding to each phase of the application and project development process.
Countries interested in co-developing a project with ICARS should begin by submitting an Expression of Interest (EoI) through the appropriate ministry. This ministry will serve as the primary counterpart throughout the process, leading the development, implementation, and subsequent uptake of the solutions identified within the project. ICARS will provide support at each stage of this collaborative effort.
Guideline for the Expression of Interest
Expression of Interest Template
Examples of Expression of Interest: human health, animal health, environment, multi-sector
Following the approval of the Expression of Interest and initial discussions with ICARS, the Responsible Ministry and ICARS begin co-developing the Concept Note—a more detailed outline of the proposed research project. [SO1]
The Responsible Ministry appoints a Lead Research Institution and a Project Coordinator to guide the project. At this stage, other relevant national research institutions, universities, and stakeholders should also be engaged to ensure a collaborative and inclusive approach.
Once finalised, the Concept Note is submitted by the Responsible Ministry for review by ICARS’ Executive Management.
Guideline for the Concept Note
[SO1] I think this might change as we already have some EoIs that will not go through the CN route
Upon approval of the Concept Note, ICARS and the Responsible Ministry (or Ministries) sign a Memorandum of Understanding, formalising their commitment to collaborate on one or more implementation projects aimed at addressing antimicrobial resistance.
Once the Concept Note is approved and the Memorandum of Understanding has been signed, the next step is the co-development of a Project Proposal—a comprehensive document detailing all aspects of the proposed research project.
Upon submission by the Responsible Ministry, the proposal undergoes a scientific evaluation by ICARS’ Technical Advisory Forum (TAF).
Based on feedback from ICARS and the TAF, the Responsible Ministry and its partners will revise the proposal, with continued support and guidance from ICARS, and submit an amended version.
If approved by ICARS’ Executive Management, the final proposal is submitted to the ICARS Steering Committee for final approval and grant allocation.
Following the approval of the Project Proposal, the Responsible Ministry and its partners lead the implementation of the project, with ongoing advice and support from ICARS.
Throughout implementation, the Responsible Ministry and partners are expected to adhere to ICARS’ guidelines and policies. This includes signing a Partnership Agreement within the first six months of the research project.
