Research for a fossil-free future
With over five million euros, we support application-oriented, interdisciplinary and high-risk research in the field of new materials and resources - our goal: to create solutions for a fossil-free future.
Our funding opportunities include projects in the areas of resources, materials and technologies. We are open to supporting individual scientists, emerging talents as well as groups and projects.
Funding for individual scientists
Joachim Herz Award – Research for our future
500,000 euros for resource-conserving biotechnologies
The Joachim Herz Award for 2025 has the motto "Future Pioneers for Sustainable Biotechnology" and is aimed at exceptional early careerscientists who are developing resource-saving biotechnologies for a sustainable future and as an alternative to the use of fossil raw materials.
Applications & nomination window: February 3rd to March 31st, 2025
innovate! Academy for bio-based materials
Up to 250,000 euros in personnel and project funding
We support scientists on the path from basic research to market maturity. To this end, we provide financial support for their research as well as a comprehensive seminar program covering crucial topics. For the two years of the funding cycle, our grantees become members of the Academy and benefit from joint learning and exchange opportunities.
Application window: February 3rd to April 7, 2025
Group and Project funding
innovate! Fund for biogenic resources
Up to 1,000,000 euros in project funding
We support up to three projects through this fund with each receiving up to 1 000 000 euros. Funded projects take an interdisciplinary approach to reducing or eliminating dependence on fossil raw materials. The fund focuses on the innovative use and production of biogenic resources, particularly in areas that, up to now, have been heavily dependent on fossil raw materials.
Application window: March 3rd to April 30th, 2025
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Add-on Fellowships for Interdisciplinary Science and Transfer
We support up to 80 scientists who are working on innovative, interdisciplinary research projects and are seeking to develop the transfer potential of their research. Work funded through these fellowships should focus on the key topic of "Resources of the Future" and use interdisciplinary approaches to making natural, economic and technological resources more sustainable and efficient to use. This includes, for example, research into economic processes or new materials.
Application window: March 17th to May 16th, 2025