Deadline: 29-Sep-2026
Vinnova is funding collaborative projects between Sweden and southern Africa to promote sustainable mining and minerals practices. Eligible Swedish higher education institutions can receive up to SEK 9 million per project over three years, covering up to 80% of costs, with co-financing required. The initiative focuses on technology development, circular business models, and long-term industry collaboration.
Overview
Vinnova invites Swedish higher education institutions to apply for funding that supports long-term collaborations with southern Africa in the mining and minerals sector. The initiative aims to advance sustainable practices, promote technology development, and encourage circular business models for a responsible and efficient mining industry.
Objectives of the Program
The program focuses on:
- Strengthening collaboration: Funding key individuals on site and fostering knowledge exchange.
- Technology development: Innovating new tools, processes, and solutions for sustainable mining.
- Framework creation: Developing regulatory, operational, or business frameworks that support sustainability.
- Circular business models: Promoting recycling, reuse, and efficiency in mining operations to minimize environmental impact.
Funding Details
- Maximum funding per project: SEK 9 million over three years
- Funding coverage: Up to 80% of the project’s eligible costs by Vinnova
- Co-financing requirement: At least 20% of Swedish universities’ costs must be co-financed; industrial co-financing is encouraged
- Distribution among participants: Based on organisation size and specific project activities
Eligibility Criteria
- Eligible applicants: Swedish higher education institutions (universities, technical universities)
- Participants: Companies and industrial partners may participate but cannot receive direct funding
- Co-financing requirement: Minimum 20% for Swedish universities; industrial contributions are optional but recommended
- Project focus: Collaboration with southern Africa in sustainable mining, technology development, and circular business practices
How to Apply
- Confirm eligibility: Ensure your institution meets Swedish higher education criteria.
- Define project scope: Identify focus areas such as technology, frameworks, circular models, and collaboration objectives.
- Plan budget and co-financing: Allocate up to 80% of costs to be funded by Vinnova, with at least 20% co-financed by the university.
- Develop collaboration strategy: Include industrial or regional partners to strengthen project outcomes.
- Submit proposal: Follow Vinnova’s official application guidelines and deadlines.
Tips for Successful Applications
- Clearly demonstrate long-term collaboration potential with southern African partners.
- Highlight innovative technology or circular economy approaches in mining.
- Include detailed budget allocation and co-financing plans.
- Show measurable environmental, social, and economic impacts.
- Ensure alignment with Vinnova’s focus on sustainable and responsible mining practices.
FAQs
1. Who can apply for this funding?
Only Swedish higher education institutions can submit applications.
2. Can companies participate?
Yes, companies may participate as partners, but funding is granted exclusively to universities.
3. What is the maximum funding per project?
Up to SEK 9 million over a three-year period.
4. Is co-financing required?
Yes, at least 20% of Swedish universities’ project costs must be co-financed; industrial co-financing is encouraged.
5. What are the main focus areas?
Technology development, circular business models, regulatory and operational frameworks, and long-term collaboration with southern Africa.
6. How is funding distributed among participants?
Based on the size of each participant and the specific activities they will undertake within the project.
7. Can the project involve multiple universities and companies?
Yes, multi-partner collaborations are encouraged, provided the lead applicant is a Swedish higher education institution.
Conclusion
This Vinnova call for proposals offers Swedish higher education institutions a strategic opportunity to advance sustainable mining practices in collaboration with southern Africa. By funding technology, circular models, and long-term partnerships, the program seeks to create lasting environmental, social, and economic impact in the mining and minerals sector.
For more information, visit Vinnova.