The primary objective of the Advanced Olympic Research Grant Programme is to encourage high - level research from a humanities or social science perspective in areas of importance to the Olympic Movement. This initiative also aims to foster collaboration between the academic community and the IOC. The programme is open to university professors, lecturers, and researchers who hold a PhD and have an academic affiliation during the grant period. It is held biennially.
The seven successful projects span a range of topics relevant to the modern Olympic Movement. Some projects focus on the health and well - being of athletes, especially female athletes. For example, one project led by Alison Prowse at Nottingham Trent University will look into the health support for elite female athletes and the role of policy and practice. Another project by Hazel Maxwell at Western Sydney University will explore policies and programs to enhance gender equality in leadership, decision - making, coaching, and officiating in Olympic sports in Oceania.
Other projects are centered around promoting social inclusion and development through sport. Indigo Willing from the University of Sydney will conduct a study on promoting gender equality and social inclusion through community skateboarding projects and the inclusion of skateboarding in the Olympics. Mitchell McSweeney and Meredith Wheatley from the University of Minnesota will explore social innovation and capacity - building in sport for development and peace through the "KLABU Club Life Cycle" strategy.
There are also projects related to athlete protection and the voices of young athletes. Monica K. Tostvedt and Bård Erlend Solstad at the University of Agder will focus on optimizing and evaluating coach training programs to improve the preparation of female athletes. John Toner’s team at the University of Hull will research the role of internal whistle - blowing mechanisms in enhancing safety in Olympic sports. Selhat Yilmaz at Loughborough University will coordinate a project on the participation and voice of young elite athletes in the Olympic Movement, with a particular focus on children's rights.
The IOC’s support for these research projects reflects its commitment to evidence - based decision - making and continuous improvement within the Olympic Movement. By funding research in these key areas, the IOC hopes to gain valuable insights that can inform its policies, programs, and initiatives, ultimately contributing to the long - term development and success of the Olympic Movement.
The next edition of the Advanced Olympic Research Grant Programme is scheduled to open in October 2026, with applications closing in February 2027. This ongoing initiative continues to play a crucial role in advancing knowledge and understanding of the Olympic Movement and its impact on society.
