Excellence Strategy
Forecasted
The Excellence Strategy by the German Research Foundation funds innovative, interdisciplinary research clusters to elevate Germany’s global scientific leadership.
Funder: German Research Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): January 2027: Letter of intent (renewal) | February 2027: Letter of intent (draft proposals) | April 2027: Letter of intent (new proposals) | May 2027: Draft proposal deadline | August 2027: Full proposal submission
Funding Amounts: €3–10 million annually per Cluster of Excellence for up to 7 years; total annual program budget €539 million (2026–2032).
Summary: Supports internationally competitive, project-based research clusters and institutional excellence at German universities to strengthen Germany’s global research profile.
Key Information: Only universities or university consortia in Germany can apply as lead; non-university partners may participate but cannot apply directly.
Description
The Excellence Strategy is a high-profile funding initiative of the German Research Foundation (DFG) aimed at elevating Germany’s status as a world-leading research hub. It operates through two main funding lines: Clusters of Excellence, which support collaborative, project-based research in internationally competitive fields, and Universities of Excellence, which enhance the institutional capacity and global standing of top German universities. The program is designed to foster outstanding, innovative research, strengthen research profiles, and promote interdisciplinary and inter-institutional collaboration. Funding is awarded through a rigorous, peer-reviewed competition, with decisions made by expert committees and governmental bodies.
