Current funding opportunities
Here you will find an overview of current and year-round calls for proposals, particularly in the areas of materials and resources, and vocational training. In addition to time-limited calls for proposals, we also offer year-round funding to support local initiatives or help implement sustainability projects at universities, vocational schools, or schools.
innovate! fund
Our innovate! fund supports projects that bridge the gap between research and application, demonstrating new ways to use water more efficiently, keep it clean, and ensure its availability. Next call: January 12–March 31, 2026.
innovate! academy
We support scientists who develop innovative materials that are inspired by water or gain new functions through water. Next call: January 12 – March 31, 2026.
innovate! center
We provide targeted support for the establishment of efficient transfer structures at universities in order to accelerate research transfer in a sustainable manner using flexible models. Next call: January 12 – April 20, 2026.
Joachim Herz Prize
We are awarding €500,000 to researchers whose projects focus on the smart use of water through economic analysis and methods. Next call: January 12–March 31, 2026.
Add-on Fellowships for Interdisciplinary Science and Transfer
Our Add-on Fellowships for Interdisciplinary Science and Transfer support researchers who want to find and implement bold, new ideas for future resources.
Next call: January 12 – March 22, 2026.