IAAM is committed to building an inclusive and globally balanced scientific ecosystem. The Developing Countries Engagement initiative ensures that researchers, students, institutions, and innovators from low- and middle-income countries can actively participate in IAAM’s global programs, networks, and leadership pathways.

Geography or economic background should never be a barrier to scientific collaboration, innovation, or recognition.

The Developing Countries Engagement program aims to:

• Reduce structural and financial barriers to global participation

• Support capacity building in research, education, and innovation

• Enable equitable access to IAAM platforms, events, and networks

• Promote international collaboration and knowledge exchange

• Strengthen global sustainability and development outcomes

This initiative supports:

• Students and early-career researchers

• Scientists, engineers, and professionals

• Universities and research institutes

• Startups, SMEs, and innovation hubs

• Public institutions and non-profit organizations

from developing and emerging economies, as defined by international frameworks.

Membership Support

• Fee waivers or reduced membership fees

• Sponsored or complimentary memberships under special IAAM programs

• Flexible payment structures where applicable

• Discounted or waived registration fees for IAAM events

• Priority consideration for travel support and participation grants (where available)

• Access to virtual and hybrid participation options

• Access to lectures, workshops, and educational programs

• Mentorship and guidance from global experts

• Support for student chapters and early-career networks

• Inclusion in international research and innovation networks

• Opportunities to participate in collaborative projects and pilot initiatives

• Visibility for research and institutional activities through IAAM platforms

IAAM supports institutions in developing countries by:

• Enabling affordable Institutional Membership options

• Supporting joint programs, workshops, and regional initiatives

• Facilitating connections with global partners, funders, and collaborators

All support requests are:

• Evaluated on eligibility, need, and alignment with IAAM’s mission

• Reviewed by the IAAM Membership Office or designated committees

• Granted based on available resources and program scope

IAAM ensures a fair, transparent, and respectful review process.

Through this initiative, IAAM seeks to:

• Strengthen global research capacity

• Support talent retention and development

• Foster sustainable innovation ecosystems

• Build long-term international partnerships

• Advance global sustainability and net-zero goals

1. Apply for IAAM membership or event participation

2. Indicate eligibility for Developing Countries Engagement support

3. Submit any required supporting information

4. Receive confirmation from the IAAM Membership Office

IAAM believes that global challenges require global participation.

The Developing Countries Engagement initiative reflects IAAM’s commitment to equity, access, and shared progress in science, innovation, and sustainability.

IAAM uses internationally recognized economic and development classifications to ensure fair, transparent, and consistent eligibility for Developing Countries Engagement support.

Support mechanisms may include membership fee waivers, reduced fees, event discounts, travel support, or sponsored participation, subject to availability and program scope.

Group A: Low-Income Countries (LICs)

Eligibility: Highest priority support

Typical support includes:

• Full or substantial membership fee waivers

• Complimentary or sponsored participation in IAAM programs

• Maximum consideration for travel and participation support

• Access to virtual and hybrid participation options

Who qualifies:

Individuals and institutions based in countries classified as Low-Income by global development frameworks (e.g., World Bank, UN).

Group B: Lower-Middle-Income Countries (LMICs)

Eligibility: High priority support

Typical support includes:

• Partial membership fee waivers or reduced rates

• Discounted event registration fees

• Priority consideration for travel or participation grants

• Capacity-building and mentorship support

Who qualifies:

Applicants from Lower-Middle-Income countries with demonstrated need or limited institutional resources.

Group C: Upper-Middle-Income Countries (UMICs)

Eligibility: Selective support

Typical support includes:

• Reduced membership or event fees

• Subsidized participation in selected programs

• Targeted support for students, early-career researchers, and emerging institutions

Who qualifies:

Applicants from Upper-Middle-Income countries, particularly those from public institutions, early-career stages, or under-resourced regions.

Group D: Least Developed Countries (LDCs)

(UN-designated subset across income groups)

Eligibility: Automatic priority support

Typical support includes:

• Full membership sponsorship

• Event fee waivers

• Priority access to IAAM inclusion programs

• Dedicated outreach and institutional support

Eligibility and support level may also consider:

• Student or early-career status

• Public or non-profit institutional affiliation

• Research focus aligned with sustainability, net-zero, or education

• Institutional capacity and funding availability

Support is needs-based, not automatic, and assessed individually.

Institutions located in eligible country groups may qualify for:

• Reduced or sponsored Institutional Membership

• Multi-year discounts for long-term engagement

• Joint program and capacity-building support

• Country classification is verified during application review

• IAAM may request basic affiliation or institutional confirmation

• Final approval is granted by the IAAM Membership Office

Country group classification may change over time based on international updates.

IAAM periodically reviews eligibility criteria to maintain fairness and global balance.

→ Apply for IAAM Membership

→ Request Fee Waiver or Support

→ Contact IAAM Membership Office