Call for Proposals: Understanding Science Funding Programme (Austria)

The Understanding Science Funding Programme by the Vienna Business Agency supports projects that make scientific knowledge accessible, engaging, and relevant to the public. With funding of up to €60,000 per project, the programme strengthens science communication, public engagement, and scientific literacy across Vienna.

The Understanding Science Funding Programme is a public funding initiative from the Vienna Business Agency that helps organisations translate scientific research into formats the public can understand and engage with. The programme focuses on science communication, knowledge transfer, and dialogue between research institutions and society.

Programme Overview

This funding programme supports projects that improve how scientific knowledge is communicated beyond academic settings. The goal is to close the gap between research and everyday life by making science understandable, relevant, and accessible to diverse audiences.

Projects can include interactive, educational, or digital approaches that encourage curiosity, trust in science, and informed public discussion.

Key Objectives

The programme is designed to:

• Improve public understanding of science

• Strengthen science communication and outreach

• Encourage dialogue between researchers and society

• Support innovative and creative communication formats

• Build long-term scientific literacy in Vienna

What Types of Projects Are Funded?

The programme welcomes a wide range of science communication formats, including:

• Interactive exhibitions or experiences

• Educational initiatives and learning programs

• Public events, workshops, or discussion forums

• Digital content such as platforms, videos, or tools

• Creative formats that translate complex research into accessible knowledge

Projects should clearly explain scientific concepts and demonstrate relevance to everyday life.

Funding Amount and Duration

• Minimum project value: €10,000

• Maximum funding per project: €60,000

• Maximum project duration: Up to 2 years

The funding timeline allows applicants to design, test, and deliver high-quality public engagement activities.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants must be organisations based in or active in Vienna.

Eligible entities include:

• Universities

• Universities of applied sciences

• Non-university research institutions

• Associations and non-profit organisations

• Other eligible organisations involved in science or research communication

Applicants must demonstrate the capacity to engage the public and deliver measurable outreach impact.

Why This Programme Matters

Scientific research often remains inaccessible to the public due to complexity or limited outreach.

This programme matters because it:

• Builds trust in science and research institutions

• Encourages informed public debate and decision-making

• Strengthens Vienna’s knowledge and innovation ecosystem

• Promotes collaboration between science and society

• Supports evidence-based understanding in everyday life

Improving science literacy benefits communities, policymakers, and future innovation.

How the Programme Works

1. Applicants design a project that improves public understanding of science

2. The proposal outlines objectives, target audiences, and engagement methods

3. A funding application is submitted to the Vienna Business Agency

4. Projects are evaluated based on quality, relevance, and public impact

5. Selected projects receive funding and proceed with implementation

How to Apply

Applicants should prepare a clear and structured proposal that includes:

• Project objectives and scientific focus

• Target audiences and engagement strategy

• Communication formats and methods

• Project timeline and budget

• Expected impact and long-term value

Applications must clearly explain how scientific content will be translated into accessible and meaningful communication.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Avoid overly technical language in the project concept

• Clearly define the public audience you want to reach

• Show how your project fosters dialogue, not just information delivery

• Demonstrate measurable outcomes for public engagement

• Align your proposal with scientific literacy and inclusion goals

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Focusing only on academic audiences

• Lacking a clear communication or outreach strategy

• Underestimating the importance of audience diversity

• Failing to explain societal relevance of the science

• Submitting vague or overly abstract project goals

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main goal of the Understanding Science Funding Programme?
To improve public understanding of science through innovative communication and engagement projects.

How much funding can one project receive?
Up to €60,000 per project.

How long can funded projects run?
Projects can run for a maximum of two years.

Who can apply for the funding?
Universities, research institutions, associations, and other eligible organisations.

Are digital projects eligible for funding?
Yes. Digital content and platforms are strongly encouraged.

Does the programme support public events?
Yes. Events, workshops, and interactive formats are eligible.

Is the programme limited to specific scientific fields?
No. All scientific disciplines are welcome if the public value is clear.

Conclusion

The Understanding Science Funding Programme offers organisations in Vienna a powerful opportunity to transform scientific research into accessible public knowledge. By supporting creative science communication, the Vienna Business Agency strengthens scientific literacy, public trust, and meaningful engagement between research and society.