Deadline: 03-Mar-2026
Denmark has launched a major funding call to support research and innovation in critical and digital technologies that strengthen national and EU competitiveness, security, and the digital welfare society. With a total budget of at least DKK 275.6 million, grants ranging from DKK 5–30 million are available for projects lasting one to five years.
Applicants are invited to submit proposals for research and innovation projects that advance critical and digital technologies essential to Denmark’s and the European Union’s security, competitiveness, and welfare systems.
The programme supports both fundamental and application-oriented research aligned with EU strategic priorities and technological sovereignty.
Programme Objectives
The call aims to:
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Strengthen Denmark’s and the EU’s technological competitiveness
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Enhance national and European security
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Support the digital transformation of society
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Promote innovation in strategic and emerging technologies
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Reinforce the digital welfare society
Projects should clearly demonstrate technological advancement and measurable societal impact.
Priority Focus Areas
The programme supports investments in the following areas of EU importance:
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Production technology
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Semiconductors
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Robotics and drone technologies
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Materials technology
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Particle research
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Cyber and information security (including human behavioural aspects)
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Space technologies
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Artificial intelligence
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Nuclear power
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Citizen engagement and digital inclusion initiatives
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Strengthening the digital welfare society
Both foundational research and applied innovation projects are eligible.
Funding Information
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Total budget: Minimum DKK 275.6 million
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Project duration: 1 to 5 years
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Individual grant size: DKK 5 million to DKK 30 million
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Nuclear research projects have a lower maximum funding threshold
Earmarked Funding
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DKK 88 million for space technologies
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DKK 80 million for artificial intelligence
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DKK 10 million for nuclear research
Funding levels must align with project scope, feasibility, and expected impact.
Eligibility Criteria
Any legal entity in Denmark or abroad may participate and receive funding, including:
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Research institutions
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Universities
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Public institutions
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Other legally registered organizations
Participants must be actively involved in project activities and contribute directly to achieving the call’s objectives.
International collaboration is permitted, provided the project strengthens Denmark’s and EU technological position.
Key Proposal Requirements
Applicants should clearly outline:
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The technological innovation or breakthrough proposed
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Alignment with the programme’s priority areas
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Contribution to national and EU competitiveness
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Societal benefits and impact on security or welfare
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Feasibility, timeline, and implementation strategy
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Budget justification
Strong proposals will demonstrate both scientific excellence and real-world applicability.
Why This Call Matters
Critical and digital technologies are central to Europe’s future resilience and global competitiveness.
By investing in semiconductors, AI, cybersecurity, space, robotics, and advanced materials, Denmark and the EU aim to:
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Reduce technological dependencies
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Strengthen supply chain security
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Enhance innovation ecosystems
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Build a resilient digital welfare society
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Support sustainable economic growth
This funding opportunity offers substantial investment to accelerate innovation in strategically important sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply?
Any legal entity in Denmark or abroad, including businesses, research institutions, and public institutions.
2. What is the total funding available?
A minimum of DKK 275.6 million is allocated for this call.
3. How much can a single project receive?
Between DKK 5 million and DKK 30 million, depending on the project scope and category.
4. How long can projects run?
Projects may last between one and five years.
5. Are international partners allowed?
Yes, as long as the project supports Denmark’s and the EU’s competitiveness and strategic objectives.
6. Are specific areas prioritized?
Yes. Space technologies, artificial intelligence, and nuclear research have earmarked funding allocations.
Conclusion
This call represents a significant strategic investment in Europe’s critical and digital technology landscape.
By funding high-impact research and innovation projects across AI, semiconductors, cybersecurity, space, robotics, and related fields, Denmark is reinforcing its commitment to strengthening EU security, competitiveness, and the digital welfare society.
For more information, visit Innovation Fund Denmark.
