This ESRC-DFID joint scheme funds world-class research on a broad range of topics to enhance the quality and impact of social science, and contribute to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals. A key feature of the scheme is that it is open to Southern institutions as bid leaders.

The scheme is currently in the second phase, with a budget of £23 million. There are 55 current projects, in addition to 83 projects from phase 1. The ESRC and DFID are currently discussing a potential third phase of the scheme.