Field Study Fellowship (FSF)
The Field Study Fellowship (FSF) from the Helmholtz Association funds scientists to validate market demand and customer needs for early-stage spin-off ideas through structured research and interviews.
Funder: Helmholtz Association
Due Dates: September 25, 2026 | March 1, 2027 (projected)
Funding Amounts: Up to €25,000 per project (max. 3 months); additional €5,500 centrally for mentoring; no co-funding required.
Summary: Supports Helmholtz Center scientists in validating market demand and customer needs for early-stage spin-off ideas through interviews and research.
Key Information: Only Helmholtz Center employees with supervisor and transfer office support are eligible.
Description
The Field Study Fellowship (FSF) is a module of the Helmholtz Enterprise program, designed to promote entrepreneurial skills and spin-off readiness among scientists at Helmholtz Centers. The FSF funds short-term (up to 3 months) projects that enable researchers to systematically identify customer needs, validate market demand, and define relevant user groups through interviews and targeted research. This early-phase support helps prospective founders rigorously assess the commercial potential of their scientific work before launching a full spin-off, providing a foundation for future entrepreneurial activities.
