INSF Comprehensive Program for Systemic Research in Inflation

Background

High inflation has detrimental effects on the economy. It increases uncertainty and unpredictability, reduces citizens' purchasing power, and stimulates speculative activities. Conversely, by disrupting resource allocation, it discourages economic agents from investing. Moreover, in addition to its economic impacts, high inflation can lead to adverse social consequences such as increased inequality and the widening of the wealth gap.

Although inflation has always been a subject of study in economics, many aspects, especially in developing countries, remain unknown. A comprehensive approach to this issue, emphasizing stakeholder participation and a systemic framework, seems highly promising. Therefore, incorporating diverse expertise for problem-solving, collaborative planning, and decision-making is crucial. Conducting fundamental research in this area with a systemic perspective to accurately understand the structure of inflation in the country and provide policy recommendations to control it is a priority.

Objective

To implement the "Comprehensive Research Programs Related to Policy Actions" in a targeted and systematic manner, INSF intends to establish a "Steering and Management Center" (MEHR) to manage proposals for supporting research under the "Comprehensive Inflation Program" as a specialized arm of the Foundation. This approach offers significant advantages for the integration and successful implementation of the comprehensive program. In this project, the center is called the "Steering and Management Center for Systemic Research on Inflation" (MEHR-SIM).

In this regard, the INSF invites reputable research centers to submit proposals to establish the "Steering and Management Center for Systemic Research on Inflation (MEHR-SIM)" with the primary mission of engaging stakeholders and emphasizing integration. MEHR-SIM will fully lead the comprehensive program on behalf of the Foundation, ensure the effective cooperation of all stakeholders, manage subsequent calls for proposals for projects under the comprehensive program, and ensure the integration of results and the coherence of the achievements of the various projects of the comprehensive program.

Expected Outputs and Eight Key Responsibilities of MEHR-SIM

1. Strategic Leadership:

2. Stakeholder Engagement:

3. Oversight of Integration:

4. Management of Project Proposals:

5. Oversight of Projects During Implementation:

6. Dissemination of Results and Knowledge Promotion:

7. Capacity Building:

8. Flexibility and Adaptability:

Eligibility

INSF invites Iranian research centers to submit proposals to establish the MEHR-SIM with the primary mission of engaging stakeholders and emphasizing integration.

 The first step includes submitting a "Letter of Intent" demonstrating the proposer's capability in the eight key responsibilities outlined, along with their track record.

Applicants need to provide evidence of the center's track record in conducting comprehensive applied research, engaging stakeholders, project management, and integrating diverse research results.

Proposal Submission Guidelines:

Applicant must submit an "Expression of Interest" indicating their capabilities (with reference to the above-mentioned eight key responsibilities).

Researchers should provide evidence of their institution’s track record in conducting comprehensive applied research, engaging stakeholders, project management, and integrating diverse research results.

Researchers who have submitted Expressions of Interest to participate in MEHR-TAB will be invited to a half-day workshop for further explanation, Q&A sessions, and familiarity with each other by the INSF, where they will be provided with complete information about the comprehensive urban resilience program and its attachments.

In the next step and after participating in the half-day workshop, applicants must submit the main proposal containing budget estimates and organization of capabilities and resources for MEHR-TAB, including a detailed strategic plan for guiding the comprehensive program with a particular focus on integration. Strategies for enhancing diversity, interaction, stakeholder engagement, project execution, and cohesive efforts must be outlined clearly within the proposal. The capacity of applicants’ institutions to manage complex and interdisciplinary collaborations must be elaborated as well. 

Timeline

• Deadline for submitting the Letter of Intent: October 31, 2024.
• Participation in the orientation workshop: Two weeks after receiving Letters of Intent.
• Deadline for submitting the main proposal: November 30, 2024.
• Announcement of results: Within 30 days of receiving proposals.

Further information regarding this announcement can be reached through the following link in Persian. 

https://insf.org/fa/news/872