The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) has opened applications for its Impact Centres of Excellence (ACE) Programme.
This initiative is aimed at strengthening India’s research and innovation capabilities and supporting institutions seeking to achieve international research excellence.
The main focus of the programme is to establish high-impact research centres in eligible academic institutions and national research laboratories.
According to the official ANRF proposal portal, the last date for submission is October 30, 2026.
ANRF Impact Centres of Excellence 2026: Key Details
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Funding agency | Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) |
| Programme | Impact Centres of Excellence (ACE) |
| Application opening date | October 2, 2026 |
| Last date to apply | October 30, 2026 |
| Deadline | 5:00 PM |
| Funding duration | Five years |
| Maximum ANRF contribution | Up to ₹100 crore, depending on category |
| Application mode | Online |
Funding Support Under the ACE Programme
The programme has three categories with different funding structures.
- Category A: For eligible academic institutions consistently ranked among the top 20 in the NIRF Overall Rankings for 2024 and 2025. The minimum total project cost is ₹100 crore over five years, with ANRF support of up to ₹100 crore.
- Category B: For eligible academic institutions consistently ranked among the top 70 in the NIRF Overall Rankings for 2024 and 2025. The minimum total project cost is ₹50 crore over five years, with ANRF support of up to ₹50 crore.
- Category C: For eligible national research laboratory clusters. The minimum total project cost is ₹50 crore over five years, with ANRF support of up to ₹50 crore.
How to Apply for ANRF ACE 2026
- Visit the official ANRF online proposal portal.
- Open the Impact Centres of Excellence (ACE) programme page.
- Read the eligibility requirements and application guidelines.
- Prepare the institutional proposal.
- Submit the proposal online before the deadline.
Important Links
- Official application portal: https://anrfonline.in/ANRF/ace_anrf?HomePage=New
- ANRF official website: https://www.anrf.gov.in/