Challenge Programme 2027: Harnessing novel Earth-abundant materials for sustainable technologies

The Challenge Programme 2027 funds interdisciplinary research consortia to develop novel Earth-abundant materials for sustainable technologies, targeting fundamental material discovery, synthesis and characterisation at TRL 1-3. Grants support consortia of 2-4 research groups led by an independent tenured/tenure-track main applicant and aim to enable scientific depth, collaboration and high-risk innovative approaches integrating experiment with modelling and data science. Projects may run for up to six years and focus on materials research rather than prototype development or commercialisation.

Project grants of up to DKK 30–75 million for a project period of six years (funding provided to the host institution).

Consortia of 2-4 research groups (main applicant plus 1-3 co-applicants). The main applicant must be an independent tenured/tenure-track researcher employed at a European (EU, Schengen Area plus United Kingdom) university, hospital, or non-profit research organisation, with at least 75% commitment and a guaranteed salary for the project period. Co-applicant institutions may be located globally. At least one applicant (main or co-applicant) must be at least 75% employed and have their research group at a Danish university, hospital, or non-profit research organisation at time of submission. Industry partners may participate but cannot receive funding.

Two-stage process: Stage 1 is an expression of interest; shortlisted applicants are invited to Stage 2 to submit a full proposal and detailed budget. Stage 2 includes an online presentation and discussion with the review panel.