HEC Invites Applications for Grand Challenge Fund 2021 Higher Education Commission (HEC) has invited research proposals from Pakistan faculty members of both public and private universities for the Grand Challenge Fund (GCF) 2021. The application process for GCF 2021 will start on 25 April and will last till 23 May. Applicants are required to submit online applications at the HEC’s Research Management System. ALSO READ According to details, GCF is a key element of the higher education development in Pakistan supported by the World Bank and implemented by the HEC. The GCF supports large and multidimensional research projects. Successful GCF projects are collaborative in scope, with research teams working cooperatively to accelerate research progress for societal impact.