Research Title: Leveraging the Economic Benefits of Cultural Diversity in Cities
I learned about the RSA Early Career Grant Scheme at the RSA Annual Lecture as part of the 2011 Association of American Geographers conference in New York. There are limited funding opportunities in the U.S. supporting research in regional development and economic geography; this is especially the case for smaller projects and scholars early in their research careers. Given the opportunity provided by the RSA, I knew I had to submit a project idea.
My institution was supportive in seeking this funding, recognizing its value to my current research as well as to my career. This grant will help me accomplish several important tasks. First, it will permit me to deepen my ongoing investigation of the economic importance of cultural diversity in cities. Second, it will permit me to present my work at several conferences. Third, this award is the first in which I am the sole principal investigator, and I hope it will help me to secure further funding as a PI to pursue my research agenda. I also hope that any publicity for the award will stimulate further interest in my research topic.
The application was relatively straightforward, and RSA staff is available to provide useful clarification. I would strongly encourage other early career scholars in the field to apply.