Tracking research funding flows in the Global South for more transparent and inclusive science is an international initiative that seeks to make visible the current dynamics of scientific funding at the global level and, in particular, to understand how these dynamics affect institutions in the Global South. Its central aim is to contribute to a fairer and more effective distribution of research resources, promoting open, inclusive science that is aligned with local development priorities.

In a context of growing calls to “decolonize” and “localize” knowledge production, this project addresses the lack of data, tools, and infrastructure needed to monitor funding flows and to empower science granting councils in the South to act strategically. Understanding who funds what, where, and how is essential to strengthening regional capacities, closing participation gaps in global science, and fostering more equitable partnerships between Northern and Southern institutions.

By combining qualitative and quantitative methods, the project will develop analytical tools, open-access datasets, visualizations, and policy-relevant insights. It will also promote dialogue spaces with key stakeholders in the scientific system, including funding agencies, decision-makers, universities, and civil society organizations.

The initiative is led by CLACSO through its Latin American Forum for Scientific Evaluation (FOLEC), in collaboration with the Centre for Science and Technology Studies (CWTS) at Leiden University, and with SIRIS Academic as its main technical partner. It also benefits from the support of an international network of experts who will form an advisory committee.

Among the project’s main outputs is this online platform, where open data, interactive infographics, academic publications, blogs, and podcasts will be published to support the understanding and discussion of funding flows. All materials will be freely accessible and actively disseminated through academic networks, media outlets, and regional and international events.

Running over 18 months (2024–2026), the project includes key milestones such as the presentation of preliminary findings at the Latin American and Caribbean Conference on Social Sciences (CLACSO 2025, Bogotá), and a closing workshop as part of a high-level event in 2026.

By shedding light on how research resources circulate, this initiative aims to influence funding policies and drive structural changes towards more open, democratic, and responsive research systems that meet the needs of the Global South.