CSRI Nepal's Global AI Research Grant 2026

The Center for Cybersecurity Research and Innovation Nepal (CSRI Nepal) has introduced the Global AI Research Grant 2026, an initiative designed to bolster security within the nation’s banking, financial, and insurance sectors. By promoting indigenous research, the program aims to create robust frameworks that mitigate risks linked to the increasing use of artificial intelligence in financial operations, while simultaneously reducing dependence on foreign technological tools. CSRI Nepal intends to foster collaboration between academic institutions, financial industry players, and regulatory bodies.

Dr. Shaligram Parajuli, president of CSRI Nepal, identified four key research pillars: developing AI-driven threat intelligence for real-time monitoring, establishing privacy-focused data governance models, creating predictive systems to combat fraud, and ensuring ethical standards in automated decision-making. The project seeks to provide evidence-based insights for regulators like Nepal Rastra Bank and transition financial defense strategies from reactive measures to predictive, automated systems. Local researchers and cybersecurity experts are invited to submit proposals via the organization's website.