RFAs: The NATO Science for Peace and Security (SPS) Programme

Deadline: 31-Jan-2026

The NATO Science for Peace and Security (SPS) Programme offers funding, expert guidance, and collaborative opportunities for scientists and experts from NATO member and partner countries. Focused on emerging technologies, AI, biotechnology, space, and hybrid threat defense, the programme supports Multi-Year Projects and Events with budgets up to EUR 400,000. Applications for Events and the first phase of Multi-Year Projects are due by 31 January 2026.

Overview

The NATO Science for Peace and Security (SPS) Programme fosters scientific collaboration and practical cooperation between NATO member states and partner countries. By supporting research and innovation in security-relevant fields, the programme promotes dialogue, knowledge exchange, and development of solutions addressing modern defense and security challenges.

Focus Areas and Strategic Objectives

The SPS Programme funds activities in areas critical to NATO’s strategic priorities:

• Innovation and emerging disruptive technologies

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and autonomous systems

• Biotechnology

• Space technologies

• Defence against hybrid threats (linking military and civilian capabilities)

• Building resilience and enhancing civil security capabilities

Available Grants and Funding

• Budget Range: EUR 250,000–400,000 per project

• Co-financing: Up to one-third of the grant amount may be considered

• Types of Grants:

  • Multi-Year Projects: Advanced research initiatives with multi-year timelines

  • Events: Advanced Research Workshops, Training Courses, and Study Institutes

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must:

• Be employed by governmental, academic, or non-profit institutions

• Develop projects jointly with at least one expert from a NATO member country and one from an eligible NATO partner country

• Assign a Project Director from the NATO country and a Project Director from the partner country

• Include additional Co-Directors for Multi-Year Projects if needed

Eligible Countries

• NATO Members: Albania, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, UK, USA, and others

• Partner Countries: Australia, Japan, Israel, New Zealand, Pakistan, Ukraine, and others

Note: For-profit private companies are not eligible for SPS funding.

Application Process

Events

1. Submit a full proposal by 31 January 2026

2. Evaluation by SPS Office and Independent Scientific Evaluation Group (ISEG)

3. Recommended proposals reviewed and approved by NATO Partnerships and Cooperative Security Committee (PCSC)

Multi-Year Projects

Phase 1: Submit a short-form proposal by 31 January 2026
Phase 2: Invited applicants submit a full proposal
Proposals must demonstrate:

• Feasibility and innovation

• Alignment with NATO’s strategic objectives

• Realistic budgets and timelines

• Clear expected impact beyond the project execution

Why It Matters

• Supports scientific innovation in security and defense

• Enables collaboration between NATO member and partner countries

• Encourages development of technologies critical to modern security

• Builds sustainable partnerships and knowledge exchange networks

Tips for Successful Applications

• Clearly define project objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes

• Demonstrate feasibility and innovation

• Ensure a realistic and detailed budget

• Highlight collaboration between NATO and partner country experts

• Align proposal with NATO’s strategic objectives and current security priorities

FAQ

1. Who can apply for SPS funding?

Scientists and experts employed by governmental, academic, or non-profit institutions in NATO member or partner countries.

2. Can private companies apply?

No, for-profit private companies are ineligible.

3. What types of projects are funded?

Multi-Year Projects and Events, including workshops, training courses, and study institutes.

4. What are the application deadlines?

• Events: Full proposals by 31 January 2026

• Multi-Year Projects: Phase 1 short-form proposals by 31 January 2026

5. Are joint applications required?

Yes, projects must include participants from at least one NATO member country and one partner country.

6. How are proposals evaluated?

Proposals are reviewed by the SPS Office, ISEG, and recommended to NATO PCSC for approval.

7. Is co-financing allowed?

Yes, up to one-third of the grant amount may be co-financed on a case-by-case basis.

Conclusion

The NATO SPS Programme offers a unique opportunity for scientists and experts to collaborate internationally on security-relevant research and technological innovation. By participating, applicants can develop practical solutions to emerging challenges, foster cross-country partnerships, and contribute to NATO’s strategic objectives in science and security.

For more information, visit NATO.