Economic efficiency in grant funding evaluations: streamlining knowledge-intensive applications in Kazakhstan

The study proposes an evolution of the grant evaluation system from a dual focus on «form and content» to a «content-centric» model to enhance the efficacy and quality of scientific research. This novel approach, intended for incorporation into Kazakhstan’s grant framework, involves a two-tiered examination process – an initial assessment by the National Center for State Scientific and Technical Expertise (NCSTE) followed by a secondary review by the National Scientific Councils (NSC). The rationale behind this shift away from an overemphasis on quantitative and qualitative project details towards a qualitative, semantic, conceptual, and methodological representation is rooted in the constraints of NCSTE/NSC resources and other pertinent factors. We have adopted and tailored the Technology Readiness Level (TRL), Manufacturing Readiness Level (MRL), and Capability Readiness Level (CRL) scaling methodologies for R&D and RNTD activities by devising a novel Scientific Readiness Levels (SRL) methodology. This has resulted in the compilation of SRL scales for fundamental (FRL), applied (ARL), and innovative projects (IRL), bringing economic efficiency to the grant funding evaluation process.