Applications are now open for the ICEGOV Scholarships 2026, a valuable opportunity offered by the United Nations University Operating Unit on Policy-Driven Electronic Governance (UNU-EGOV). The scholarship supports authors of accepted research papers who wish to participate in the International Conference on Theory and Practice of Electronic Governance (ICEGOV 2026).

The conference will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 28 September to 1 October 2026. It brings together researchers, policymakers, government officials, students, and technology experts from around the world to discuss the latest developments in digital governance, public sector innovation, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital transformation.

The ICEGOV Scholarship is designed to increase participation from students and researchers in emerging economies by reducing financial barriers to conference attendance. Successful applicants receive free conference registration, a USD 300 financial contribution, and the opportunity to present their research before an international audience.

If you have an accepted paper related to electronic governance, digital public services, or public sector innovation, this scholarship offers an excellent opportunity to expand your academic network while showcasing your research on a global stage.

ICEGOV Scholarships 2026 Overview

About the ICEGOV Conference

The International Conference on Theory and Practice of Electronic Governance (ICEGOV) is one of the world's leading conferences focusing on digital governance and public sector innovation.

Organized with the support of the United Nations University, the conference provides a platform where academics, researchers, government officials, industry leaders, and students exchange ideas on improving governance through technology.

The event encourages innovative research that contributes to stronger public institutions, inclusive digital services, and sustainable development worldwide.

Each year, participants present cutting-edge research covering topics such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital public infrastructure, smart cities, digital democracy, and government innovation.

About United Nations University (UNU-EGOV)

The United Nations University Operating Unit on Policy-Driven Electronic Governance (UNU-EGOV) conducts research, education, and policy development in the field of electronic governance.

Its mission is to help governments improve public administration through digital technologies while promoting sustainable development and inclusive governance.

Through conferences such as ICEGOV, UNU-EGOV connects researchers with policymakers to encourage practical solutions to modern governance challenges.

Scholarship Benefits

The ICEGOV Scholarship provides financial assistance while offering valuable academic and professional opportunities.

Free Conference Registration

Successful applicants receive complimentary registration for the entire conference.This provides full access to:

• Technical sessions
• Research presentations
• Workshops
• Networking activities
• Panel discussions
• Keynote speeches

Participants can engage directly with internationally recognized experts in digital governance.

USD 300 Financial Support

Recipients also receive a lump sum payment of USD 300.The funding is intended to assist with conference-related expenses.

The payment is made after the conference to participants who meet all attendance requirements.

Present Your Research Internationally

One of the greatest advantages of the scholarship is the opportunity to present accepted research before an international audience.Presenting at ICEGOV allows researchers to:

• Receive expert feedback.
• Share innovative ideas.
• Increase academic visibility.
• Improve future publication opportunities.

Build Global Networks

ICEGOV attracts participants from governments, universities, international organizations, and technology companies.

Attendees can establish valuable professional relationships with:

• Researchers
• Policymakers
• International organizations
• Industry experts
• Future collaborators

Networking often leads to future research partnerships and career opportunities.

Learn About Emerging Digital Governance Trends

Participants gain first-hand exposure to new developments in:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Digital government
• Smart cities
• Open data
• Cybersecurity
• Digital transformation
• Public administration

These insights help researchers remain current in rapidly evolving fields.

Who Can Apply?

The scholarship primarily targets students and researchers from emerging economies.

However, all authors of accepted conference papers are eligible to submit applications.

Preference is given to applicants meeting specific eligibility conditions.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should carefully review all requirements before applying.

Accepted Conference Paper

Applicants must be an author of an accepted ICEGOV 2026 paper.Without an accepted paper, applicants cannot qualify for the scholarship.

Student Status

Preference is given to applicants who are enrolled during the 2025/26 academic year as:

• Bachelor's students
• Master's students
• Doctoral students

Postdoctoral researchers are not considered students for this scholarship.

Eligible Countries

Priority is given to applicants from:

• Low-income economies
• Lower-middle-income economies
• Upper-middle-income economies

The classification follows the latest World Bank income categories.

One Applicant Per Paper

Only one author from each accepted paper may receive scholarship support.

Submitting multiple applications from the same paper may result in disqualification.

Applicants should coordinate with co-authors before applying.

Attendance Requirement

Recipients must attend:

• All four conference days

and

• The Doctoral Colloquium (when applicable)

Full attendance is mandatory to receive the USD 300 financial contribution.

Conference Themes

ICEGOV welcomes research across numerous digital governance topics.

Major conference themes include:

Inclusive and Ethical Digital Governance

Research exploring transparency, accountability, ethics, and citizen trust in digital government.

Privacy, Cybersecurity and Digital Sovereignty

Studies examining secure digital services, cybersecurity frameworks, and protection of digital infrastructure.

Artificial Intelligence for Public Good

Research focusing on responsible AI adoption within government institutions.

Topics include:

• AI ethics
• Public service automation
• Responsible innovation

Digital Transformation in Government

Research addressing modernization of government services using digital technologies.Examples include:

• Digital public services
• Process automation
• Citizen engagement

Emerging Technologies

Studies exploring technologies such as:

• Blockchain
• Internet of Things
• Big Data
• Cloud Computing
• Machine Learning

and their application within public administration.

Measuring Digital Governance Success

Research proposing new frameworks and performance indicators for evaluating digital government initiatives.

Digital Public Infrastructure

Projects focusing on scalable digital systems that improve accessibility and public service delivery.

e-Democracy and Citizen Participation

Research exploring digital platforms that strengthen civic engagement and democratic participation.

Smart Cities and Open Data

Studies examining urban innovation, data-driven policymaking, and intelligent city management.

Governance and Digital Policy

Research covering:

• Digital legislation
• Regulatory frameworks
• Technology governance
• Policy development

Required Application Process

Applying for the scholarship is straightforward.

Step 1

Prepare and submit your research paper to ICEGOV.

Wait until your paper has been officially accepted.

Step 2

Visit the official ICEGOV scholarship webpage.

Access the online scholarship application form.

Step 3

Complete every section of the application carefully.

Ensure all requested information is accurate.

Step 4

Submit the application before the deadline.Only the most recent application submitted by each applicant will be considered.

Important Dates

Applicants should submit their scholarship application well before the closing date.

Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application

Although conference paper acceptance is the primary requirement, applicants can improve their chances by:

• Submitting a strong research paper.
• Clearly explaining financial need where requested.
• Demonstrating the relevance of their work to digital governance.
• Ensuring all application information is complete.
• Applying before the deadline.

Carefully reviewing all instructions before submission helps avoid unnecessary errors.

Why Attend ICEGOV 2026?

Participating in ICEGOV offers numerous professional benefits.

Researchers can:

• Present internationally recognized work.
• Receive expert feedback.
• Learn from global specialists.
• Expand professional networks.
• Increase publication opportunities.
• Explore future collaborations.
• Stay informed about emerging technologies shaping government services.

For graduate students and early-career researchers, conference participation also strengthens academic portfolios.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the scholarship fully funded?

No.

It is a partial funding scholarship that provides:

• Free conference registration.
• USD 300 financial support.

Who can apply?

Authors of accepted ICEGOV 2026 papers.

Priority is given to students from low-income, lower-middle-income, and upper-middle-income economies.

Is there an application fee?

No.

Submitting the scholarship application is completely free.

Can more than one author from the same paper apply?

No.

Only one author per accepted paper is eligible for scholarship consideration.

Is attendance mandatory?

Yes.

Recipients must attend all required conference activities to receive the USD 300 payment.

Why This Scholarship Matters

Research conferences play an important role in academic development.

The ICEGOV Scholarship helps remove financial barriers for talented researchers while encouraging global collaboration on digital governance challenges.

Participants gain opportunities to influence future public policy, share innovative research, and contribute to the growing field of electronic governance.

As governments continue investing in digital transformation, research presented at conferences like ICEGOV becomes increasingly valuable for shaping better public services worldwide.

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