The Children’s Rights Research Fund is connected to Maastricht University and the University Fund Limburg (SWOL). It aims at supporting research and education projects in the field of children’s rights by staff and students from Maastricht University, with an option to cooperate with third parties. The Fund will make grants available twice a year.
Applications by Maastricht University staff and students can be submitted for
- A research project with a maximum of € 5.000,-.
- An education project with a maximum of € 2.500,-.
Projects may take place in the Netherlands or in other countries. Collaborations with people or organizations are welcome. However, applications should involve at least one Maastricht University student or staff member. To stimulate collaboration between researchers and children’s rights organizations/professionals, we offer matchmaking.
Funding criteria
The application (max. 3 pages A-4) must describe the goal(s) of the project, the timeline, the way in which it will be implemented and its intended outcome(s). In addition,
- At least one of the goals of the project should aim at improving the living situation of children;
- The involvement and participation of children is a requirement for research project proposals Projects without any involvement. of children will not be eligible for funding;
- Education project proposals should have a strong emphasis on stimulating children to think and act creatively, critically and with a problem-solving orientation. Applications aimed at passive learning will not be eligible for funding;
- Both education and research project proposals must indicate which third party will be involved in the project, if any;
- For research projects, a short explanation of the methodology must be provided;
- An estimate of costs and revenues must be attached.
Students who intend to submit an application may be assisted by Dr. Marieke Hopman by means of a coaching interview (email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
Please note that, for research projects, it may be necessary to ask for approval from the Ethics Committee of Maastricht University before the project can start.
Recipients of a grant must report at least once about the project via the website (www.childrensrightresearch.com). They should also mention the funding received in (all) their relevant publication(s) or other activities related to the project.
An Advisory Committee will review the applications and draft a nomination for funding to the Board of the Fund.
There will be two calls every year
Upcoming deadline: 1 March 2023.
Next deadline: 1 November 2023.
Applications should be sent by email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
You will find more information on the Children’s Rights Research Fund on this website.
