Momentum – Funding for Recently Tenured Professors
Momentum by Volkswagen Foundation funds recently tenured professors in Germany to strategically expand and innovate the scientific direction of their professorships.
Funder: Volkswagen Foundation
Due Dates: April 14, 2026 (Short proposal) | October 27, 2026 (Full proposal, invited only) | April 6, 2027 (Short proposal, next round)
Funding Amounts: Up to €850,000 (first phase, max. 4 years) plus up to €200,000 (second phase, max. 2 years); 10% overhead eligible.
Summary: Supports recently tenured professors in Germany to strategically develop and broaden the content and direction of their professorships across all disciplines.
Key Information: Two-stage application: short proposal with CV and video, then full proposal by invitation.
Description
This initiative from the Volkswagen Foundation aims to provide recently tenured professors in Germany with the resources and flexibility to further develop the strategic and content direction of their professorships. The program supports creative, innovative concepts that allow professors to explore new approaches and broaden perspectives within their field. Funding is not intended for traditional research projects, but rather for initiatives that enhance the professorship's impact, content, and integration within the university.
