Project Support for Science Education and Informal Learning Environments (Denmark)

Deadline: 03-Sep-2026

The Novo Nordisk Foundation is inviting applications for projects that strengthen science education, promote informal learning environments, and enhance public interest, knowledge, and skills in science, technology, sustainability, and health across Denmark. The programme provides grants ranging from DKK 100,000 to DKK 6 million, with a total funding framework of up to DKK 53 million for projects lasting up to six years.

The call supports educational institutions, museums, science centres, universities, and other relevant organisations working to improve STEM education, science communication, sustainability awareness, digital literacy, and public engagement with science and technology.

Programme Overview

The Novo Nordisk Foundation’s funding programme aims to strengthen scientific education and create meaningful learning opportunities for children, young people, families, educators, and the broader public in Denmark.

The initiative supports projects that increase understanding of science, technology, sustainability, health, and innovation through both formal education and informal learning environments. The programme seeks to foster curiosity, critical thinking, scientific literacy, and practical skills that contribute to future societal development and the green transition.

Funding Information

• Total funding framework: Up to DKK 53 million
• Grant size: DKK 100,000 to DKK 6,000,000
• Project duration: Up to 6 years
• Geographic focus: Denmark

Key Focus Areas

Projects may address one or more of the following areas:

• STEM education
• Science education and science literacy
• Science didactic research
• Informal science learning
• Sustainability education
• Green transition initiatives
• Health education
• Science pedagogy
• Natural sciences
• Mathematics education
• Food science
• Crafts and design education
• Teacher education
• Pedagogue education
• EPX education
• Science competitions
• Talent development programmes
• Professional development for educators
• Artificial intelligence education
• Computational thinking
• Digital technology understanding
• Science activity centres
• Museums and science communication
• Leisure-time learning activities
• Summer schools
• Public engagement with science and technology

Programme Objectives

The foundation aims to support projects that:

• Increase interest in science and technology
• Improve scientific understanding among children and young people
• Strengthen STEM competencies
• Enhance sustainability and environmental awareness
• Promote health literacy
• Support innovation in teaching and learning
• Improve educator competencies
• Expand access to high-quality science learning experiences
• Encourage public participation in science and technology discussions
• Strengthen future workforce skills in science and technology sectors

What Types of Projects Can Be Supported?

Eligible projects may include:

• Educational development programmes
• Science outreach initiatives
• Museum-based learning activities
• Science centre programmes
• Research projects in science education
• Community science engagement projects
• Teacher training programmes
• Digital learning initiatives
• Artificial intelligence and technology education programmes
• Sustainability and climate education projects
• Science camps and summer schools
• Talent development initiatives
• Science competitions and challenge programmes
• Public science communication activities

Understanding Key Concepts

STEM Education

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. STEM education focuses on developing analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, creativity, and technical skills that are increasingly important in modern society and future careers.

Informal Learning Environments

Informal learning environments are educational settings outside traditional classrooms. Examples include science centres, museums, summer schools, workshops, community programmes, and leisure activities where participants engage with science through hands-on experiences.

Computational Thinking

Computational thinking involves solving problems using logical reasoning, data analysis, pattern recognition, and algorithmic approaches. It is considered a foundational skill for digital literacy and technology education.

Green Transition

The green transition refers to societal efforts to reduce environmental impact and create sustainable systems through innovation, education, renewable energy, resource efficiency, and environmentally responsible practices.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Organisations and institutions
• Educational establishments
• Science activity centres
• Museums
• Universities
• University colleges
• Research institutions
• Non-profit organisations
• Other relevant entities capable of implementing projects within the programme scope

Eligibility for Researchers

Researchers may be eligible for salary support under specific conditions:

• Researchers without permanent employment may apply for support covering their own salary for up to two years.
• Permanently employed researchers at universities and university colleges cannot receive funding for their own salaries.
• Permanently employed researchers may apply for funding for project staff, research assistants, and temporary replacement arrangements.

Ineligible Activities and Costs

The foundation does not support:

• Commercial activities or commercial projects
• Construction of buildings
• Overhead costs
• Indirect operational costs
• Rent expenses
• Electricity costs
• Water expenses
• Maintenance costs
• Projects receiving duplicate or overlapping funding for the same activities

Applicants must disclose any existing, pending, or anticipated funding related to the proposed project.

Why This Funding Matters

Science and technology skills are increasingly important for addressing global challenges such as climate change, public health, digital transformation, and sustainable development.

This programme helps:

• Strengthen scientific literacy across society
• Prepare young people for future careers
• Support innovation in education
• Improve public understanding of science
• Encourage participation in sustainability initiatives
• Build stronger connections between research and society
• Enhance Denmark’s capacity for innovation and knowledge development

How to Apply

Step 1: Review Programme Objectives

Carefully assess whether the proposed project aligns with the foundation’s priorities in science education, technology, sustainability, health, or public engagement.

Step 2: Develop a Project Plan

Prepare a clear project proposal outlining:

• Project objectives
• Target audience
• Activities and methodology
• Expected outcomes
• Timeline
• Evaluation approach
• Long-term impact

Step 3: Prepare the Budget

Develop a realistic budget that:

• Includes eligible expenses only
• Excludes overhead and indirect costs
• Clearly justifies requested funding
• Identifies any co-funding sources

Step 4: Document Organisational Capacity

Demonstrate the ability to successfully implement the project by providing information on:

• Relevant experience
• Team expertise
• Partnerships
• Previous project achievements

Step 5: Disclose Additional Funding

Provide full details of:

• Existing grants
• Pending applications
• Related funding sources
• Potential overlapping support

Step 6: Submit the Application

Complete and submit all required application materials according to the foundation’s guidelines and deadlines.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Clearly align the project with programme priorities
• Define measurable outcomes and impact indicators
• Demonstrate strong educational value
• Include evidence-based methods and approaches
• Show long-term sustainability beyond the grant period
• Explain how participants will benefit
• Present a realistic implementation plan
• Highlight innovation and scalability where relevant

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Proposing activities outside the programme scope
• Including ineligible costs in the budget
• Providing unclear objectives or outcomes
• Failing to explain project impact
• Submitting incomplete documentation
• Overlooking funding disclosure requirements
• Presenting unrealistic timelines or budgets
• Failing to demonstrate organisational capacity

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the total funding available under this call?

The total funding framework is up to DKK 53 million.

How much funding can a single project receive?

Projects may receive grants ranging from DKK 100,000 to DKK 6,000,000.

How long can funded projects last?

Projects can have a duration of up to six years.

Can universities apply?

Yes. Universities and university colleges are eligible applicants under this funding programme.

Are museums and science centres eligible?

Yes. Museums, science activity centres, and similar educational institutions are eligible to apply.

Can funding be used for overhead and operational expenses?

No. The foundation does not support overhead, rent, utilities, maintenance, or other indirect costs.

Can researchers receive salary support?

Researchers without permanent positions may receive salary support for up to two years. Permanently employed researchers may not receive salary support for themselves but can apply for funding for project staff and temporary replacement arrangements.

Conclusion

The Novo Nordisk Foundation’s Science Education and Public Engagement funding programme provides significant support for initiatives that strengthen STEM education, sustainability awareness, health literacy, and public engagement with science and technology in Denmark. With up to DKK 53 million available, the programme offers valuable opportunities for educational institutions, research organisations, museums, and science centres to develop innovative projects that build scientific knowledge, inspire future generations, and contribute to a more informed and sustainable society.

For more information, visit Novo Nordisk Foundation.