Poland’s National Centre for Research and Development (NCBR) is seeking proposals for a commissioned project supporting the large-scale production of renewable and low-emission synthetic fuels. This call—part of the GOSPOSTRATEG Program—offers up to PLN 20 million per project, covering 100% of eligible costs for non-commercial R&D activities. The goal is to strengthen Poland’s energy security and economic competitiveness by 2028 through evidence-based policy and advanced fuel innovation.

NCBR Call for Proposals: Large-Scale Production of Low-Emission Synthetic Fuels

Overview

The National Centre for Research and Development (NCBR) has launched the 14th call under the GOSPOSTRATEG Program to select contractors for a strategic project submitted by the Ministry of Energy. The initiative focuses on developing technologies and frameworks for producing renewable and low-emission synthetic fuels at scale, supporting Poland’s industrial and transport sectors.

Why It Matters

This programme is critical for:

Enhancing Poland’s energy security
Strengthening national economic competitiveness
Supporting hard-to-decarbonise sectors, such as heavy transport and industrial operations
Ensuring socio-economic research contributes to policy design
Accelerating Poland’s transition to renewable and low-emission fuels

Key Focus Areas

The call emphasises two strategic pillars:

Policy Impact: Increase the application of socio-economic research in shaping national and regional development policies by 2028.
Fuel Innovation: Develop a comprehensive programme enabling large-scale domestic production of low-emission and renewable synthetic fuels for sectors that are difficult to decarbonise.

Understanding Key Concepts

Synthetic Fuels

Synthetic fuels are liquid or gaseous fuels produced from renewable or low-emission sources, offering alternatives for sectors where electrification is challenging.

Hard-to-Decarbonise Sectors

Industries such as aviation, maritime transport, heavy-duty vehicles, and energy-intensive manufacturing that require high-density energy solutions.

GOSPOSTRATEG Program

A national strategy programme promoting research-based solutions that support long-term socio-economic development and evidence-driven policymaking.

Funding Details

Total Allocation: PLN 20 million
Maximum Funding per Project: PLN 20 million
Funding Rate: Up to 100% of eligible costs
Project Duration: Up to 36 months
Project Type: Non-commercial research and development activities

Eligible Activities

The programme supports:

Basic research
Industrial research
Experimental development
Mandatory pre-implementation work
This ensures each project progresses from concept to practical application.

Who Is Eligible?

Only consortia composed exclusively of non-enterprises may apply. Eligible entities include:

Research organisations
Commercial law companies (non-commercial activities only)
Foundations
Associations

Consortium Requirements

Maximum of five entities
At least two research organisations must be included
All partners must conduct non-commercial R&D

How It Works

The call seeks consortia capable of delivering in-depth R&D to support future large-scale production of synthetic fuels. Selected applicants will:

Conduct multi-stage research
Develop scalable production methodologies
Ensure outcomes support national policy development
Deliver practical, implementable results aligned with government priorities

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

Review Eligibility Criteria
Confirm your consortium meets all programme requirements.
Form a Qualified Consortium
Include at least two research organisations; ensure no commercial activities are proposed.
Define the Project Scope
Align objectives with synthetic fuel development and socio-economic policy impact.
Prepare Technical Documentation
Include methodology, research structure, work packages, and pre-implementation plans.
Develop a Budget
Ensure costs comply with eligible R&D categories.
Submit the Proposal
Apply through the official NCBR submission system before the deadline.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Including enterprises or organisations engaged in commercial activities
Submitting proposals misaligned with synthetic fuel production or GOSPOSTRATEG goals
Exceeding the maximum consortium size
Proposing activities that are not strictly research-oriented
Underestimating the scope or duration required for large-scale production R&D

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the maximum amount of funding available?

Each project can receive up to PLN 20 million, covering 100% of eligible costs.

2. Who can apply for this call?

Consortia of non-enterprises, including research organisations, foundations, associations, and non-commercial commercial law companies.

3. Are commercial activities allowed in the project?

No. All activities must be strictly non-commercial research and development.

4. What sectors does the project target?

Hard-to-decarbonise industrial and transport sectors requiring advanced low-emission fuel solutions.

5. How long can a project last?

Up to 36 months.

6. What types of research are eligible?

Basic research, industrial research, experimental development, and mandatory pre-implementation work.

7. What is the main goal of the programme?

To enable large-scale domestic production of renewable and low-emission synthetic fuels and strengthen Poland’s long-term energy security.

Conclusion

This NCBR call under the GOSPOSTRATEG Program represents a strategic investment in Poland’s energy future. By funding large-scale R&D in renewable and low-emission synthetic fuels, the initiative supports national policy objectives, accelerates innovation, and strengthens the country’s industrial and energy resilience. Consortia that meet the requirements have a unique opportunity to contribute to one of Poland’s most important technological and economic priorities.