Deadline: 08-Jul-2026
The Czech Republic has launched its fourth public competition to support applied research, experimental development, and innovation projects in the transport sector. The programme focuses on sustainable transport, automation, digitalisation, and environmentally friendly mobility solutions with practical application potential.
Projects can receive up to CZK 30 million in funding, with a maximum aid intensity of 70%. The programme encourages collaboration between research institutions, universities, businesses, and public authorities to strengthen innovation and commercialization in transport technologies.
Focus Areas
Sustainable, Accessible and Safe Transport
Projects may focus on:
- Smart mobility solutions
- Road safety technologies
- Sustainable public transport
- Traffic management systems
- Accessibility improvements
Automation and Digitalisation
Supported activities include:
- Artificial intelligence in transport
- Autonomous systems
- Smart infrastructure
- Digital logistics
- Predictive maintenance technologies
Low-Emission and Green Transport
Eligible topics include:
- Electric mobility
- Hydrogen transport technologies
- Alternative fuels
- Carbon reduction systems
- Energy-efficient transport infrastructure
Funding Details
- Total expected programme allocation: CZK 400 million
- Maximum funding per project: CZK 30 million
- Maximum aid intensity: 70%
- Funding supports applied research and innovation activities
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Research organizations
- Universities and academic institutions
- Small, medium, and large enterprises
- Public authorities and state organizations
- Other eligible entities listed in the tender documentation
Applicants that are not research organizations or public authorities must apply under the enterprise category.
Application Guarantor Requirement
Each project must include at least one application guarantor based in the Czech Republic. The guarantor is responsible for supporting the practical application and use of project results.
The guarantor may be:
- An internal applicant organization
- An external Czech-based entity
Eligible Costs
Supported cost categories include:
- Personnel expenses
- Research salaries
- Scholarships
- Innovation and development activities
The programme sets a limit of CZK 1.6 million for average personnel costs per full-time position. Applicants exceeding this limit must provide detailed justification.
How to Apply
Applicants must:
- Prepare a project proposal with clear objectives and practical impact
- Identify a Czech-based application guarantor
- Collect mandatory documents and attachments
- Explain links to ongoing or completed projects to avoid double financing
- Submit the proposal through the SISTA system
Applications must be submitted in Czech or Slovak language.
Why This Programme Matters
The competition supports the modernization of transport systems in the Czech Republic through sustainable mobility, digital transformation, and advanced transport technologies. It also promotes collaboration between academia and industry while encouraging commercialization of research outputs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing guarantor information
- Incomplete documentation
- Weak commercialization strategy
- Failure to disclose related projects
- Unjustified personnel costs
FAQ
What is the maximum funding amount?
Projects can receive up to CZK 30 million.
What is the maximum aid intensity?
The maximum aid intensity is 70%.
Which transport sectors are covered?
The programme supports road, rail, water, and air transport, including infrastructure and mobility systems.
Can private companies apply?
Yes, enterprises of all sizes are eligible.
What language must applications be submitted in?
Applications must be submitted in Czech or Slovak.
Conclusion
The Czech Republic Transport Research Funding Competition 2026 offers major funding opportunities for organizations developing sustainable, smart, and innovative transport solutions. Strong proposals with practical application potential, industry collaboration, and clear innovation impact are likely to be the most competitive.
For more information, visit TACR.