The Aurora Initiative launches a new research program

ArmInfo. The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has launched the Aurora Research Grants Program, a new project designed to highlight the stories of unsung humanitarian workers on the frontlines of today's most pressing crises.

According to a statement from Aurora received by ArmInfo, applications for the first cohort of the 2026 program are now open. The program offers researchers a concrete opportunity to raise awareness of pressing humanitarian issues and help local initiatives gain visibility and potential support through the Aurora Prize.

"With more than 240 million people worldwide affected by conflict, displacement, and climate-related disasters, and funding continuing to decline, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator (OCHA) Tom Fletcher noted that humanitarian workers are increasingly 'overburdened, underfunded, and under attack.' Against this backdrop, recognizing and amplifying the efforts of local professionals is essential, and the Aurora Research Grants program was created to support this mission," the humanitarian initiative stated.

As part of the program, participants will research and document the work of humanitarian organizations operating on the ground in settings affected by violent conflict and atrocities around the world. Within 35 days, each participant will be required to conduct online research in their preferred language and prepare clear, well-documented English-language profiles of five eligible candidates. These profiles will subsequently be considered as part of the Aurora Prize selection process.