May 15, 2025 | Brussels, Belgium

WAIFC Young Academic Award 2025: Global Call for Papers

Submit your paper and win exclusive prizes

Each year, the WAIFC Young Academic Award draws outstanding papers from young researchers around the world and this 4th edition is already shaping up to be exceptional. The interest in this global competition continues to grow, and we are thrilled to announce that the application deadline has been extended: you now have until May 30, 2025, to submit your paper or essay.

This year's edition is truly special. In addition to receiving recognition and a cash prize, the winner will be invited to present their research in front of the world’s top leaders in international financial centers during the WAIFC Annual General Meeting in Frankfurt am Main.

And there's more:
Special Bonus: The 2025 winner will also receive a complimentary ticket to Money 20/20 Europe 2026, one of the most prestigious global events in finance and fintech, with a retail value of approximately €3,900.

What Topics Can You Explore?

Young academics are invited to submit papers or essays related to key topics including:

Climate finance and sustainable finance through international financial centers
Financing the circular or blue (maritime) economy
The impact of Generative AI and Quantum Computing on finance
Gender equity, talent development, and intergenerational wealth transfer
Financial consumer protection and digital asset strategies
We also welcome relevant topics not listed above, as long as they align with the mission of international financial centers.

Who Can Apply?

This is a global award open to young academics under 35 years old as of May 30, 2025. Whether you're a Ph.D. student, a post-doc, or a junior faculty member, if you have a great idea, we want to hear from you. Applicants from all countries are welcome, including non-WAIFC member nations.

Multiple authors are allowed per paper, as long as one of them meets the age requirement.

How to Submit

Submit your paper or essay through the official submission form by May 30, 2025.
We will evaluate all submissions based on novelty, relevance, innovation, scientific merit, and practical applicability.

Why Enter?

Present your work to global financial leaders
Gain visibility in a high-level international forum
Win up to €3,000, plus exclusive access to Money 20/20 Europe 2026
Join a growing global network of forward-thinking academics

For more information, consult the Award Handbook or email us at: award@waifc.finance

We look forward to discovering your ideas and seeing you on the global stage.