Breakthrough enabling technologies
Funds high-risk research into breakthrough enabling technologies—such as AI, quantum tech, and advanced materials—with disruptive potential for Norwegian society, business, and sectors.
Funder: Research Council of Norway
Due Dates: June 10, 2026 (full application deadline)
Funding Amounts: NOK 4,000,000–8,000,000 per project (approx. 24–48 months); total call budget NOK 210,000,000
Summary: Supports high-risk research into groundbreaking enabling technologies with disruptive potential for Norwegian society, business, and sectors.
Key Information: Only approved Norwegian research organisations or equivalent foreign research institutions may apply; companies cannot be partners.
Description
This grant funds research projects focused on breakthrough enabling technologies with the potential for disruptive change, aiming to drive innovation and value creation in Norwegian business and society. Supported projects should pursue scientific or sector-specific breakthroughs, or propose entirely new solutions or applications with significant societal impact. The call emphasizes high-risk, high-reward research, encourages the involvement of early-career researchers, and requires alignment with responsible research and innovation (RRI) guidelines. Relevant technology areas include synthetic biology, neurotechnology, quantum technology, advanced materials, AI, and autonomous systems, among others highlighted by the OECD, NATO, and EU.
Projects must anticipate and reflect on societal consequences, actively involve relevant sectors, and bridge the gap between research and practical application. The scheme is designed for initiatives that may fall outside established funding pathways but have the potential for major long-term impact.
