Supports the creation of long-term, multidisciplinary research centres in Norway to conduct innovative, high-impact science addressing complex challenges at the international research frontier.
Funder: Research Council of Norway
Due Dates: November 11, 2026: Application deadline (Phase 2 full application submission)
Funding Amounts: NOK 80–160 million per centre over 10 years; additional funding from host and partners encouraged
Summary: Supports the establishment of long-term, ground-breaking research centres in Norway, open only to prequalified applicants from Phase 1 of the SFF-VI process.
Key Information: Phase 2 is by invitation only for applicants preselected in Phase 1; only Norwegian research organisations may serve as host.
The Norwegian Centres of Excellence (SFF) scheme aims to enable Norway’s top researchers to establish research centres focused on ambitious, long-term scientific goals. These centres are expected to deliver innovative, high-impact research that advances the international research frontier, tackling complex challenges that require coordinated, multidisciplinary approaches. This specific call is for Phase 2 of the sixth SFF generation (SFF-VI) and is restricted to applicants who have been prequalified through the Phase 1 process. Applications must present a more detailed project plan, building on the initial proposal, and address requirements around ethics, gender equality, research security, open access, and data management.