The Young Leaders in Research (YLR) Program was established by the African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET) to elevate youth-led research contributing to Africa’s economic transformation under the Growth with DEPTH agenda. CAPDEV CONSULTANTS LTD was engaged as part of the selection committee responsible for reviewing candidates and selecting the final cohort of grantees for the 2026 cycle. The engagement assumed that candidate proposals required technical assessment, allowing for a structured evaluation of research quality, innovation, feasibility, and policy relevance. Thus, CAPDEV CONSULTANTS LTD scored eligible applications using agreed rubrics, ensured gender equity and regional diversity and participated in shortlisted applicant interviews. Key outcomes hinged on collaborative committee deliberations, upholding high governance standards, and recommending a vetted final list of grantees by consensus or vote. Subsequently CAPDEV Consultants were involved in mentoring the selected Young Leaders in Research in the funded research activities.

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Keywords: ACET, Young Leaders in Research (YLR), Growth with DEPTH, Selection committee, Early-career researchers.