EQT Foundation Grant Program

EQT Foundation is initiating an open call for applications targeting breakthrough scientific research that aims to reduce global dependence on critical minerals for the green energy transition. This funding opportunity seeks to support high-risk, high-reward deep technology approaches that focus on substitution or significant reduction in the use of constrained and environmentally challenging raw materials used in climate-critical technologies. The program offers catalytic, non-dilutive funding between €25,000 and €100,000 to researchers, innovators, and technologists developing solutions that align with this mission. The core motivation of this initiative stems from the heavy reliance of emerging clean technologies—such as batteries, photovoltaics, power electronics, electric motors, and electrolyzers—on a limited set of critical and strategic raw materials. These materials are often geographically concentrated, have volatile markets, and pose environmental and social risks. Without alternatives or radical design changes, the global push for decarbonization risks significant slowdowns due to supply bottlenecks, escalating costs, and environmental impact. EQT Foundation’s call specifically encourages translational research in several key areas. These include the development of alternative battery chemistries using earth-abundant elements, innovations in anode and cathode materials, degradation and safety solutions that facilitate adoption of new chemistries, and rare-earth-free magnet and motor designs. In photovoltaics and power electronics, the Foundation is interested in substitutes for constrained semiconductor materials and improvements in component recyclability and durability. Additionally, proposals focusing on recycling technologies and closed-loop systems that provide functional equivalents to primary critical materials are strongly encouraged. Emphasis is placed on manufacturability, cost competitiveness, and measurable environmental benefit. The application process is designed to be scientist-friendly and efficient. In contrast to traditional grant models that may take months for approval, EQT Foundation adopts a fast granting process to rapidly disburse funds to eligible and promising research teams. Proposals should present not only technological innovation but also credible pathways to implementation and scalability. EQT Foundation emphasizes solutions that lead to significant material substitution, rather than incremental improvements, and proposals must be closely tied to climate, energy, or industrial decarbonization outcomes. The submission deadline for this grant opportunity is February 25, 2026 at 11:59pm CET. Applications must be submitted before this date to be considered. The Foundation explicitly outlines areas that are out of scope, including projects focused on traditional mining expansion, pure policy work, and basic science without translational relevance. Successful applicants are expected to present a clear and compelling case for how their technology disrupts conventional material use patterns and contributes meaningfully to a more sustainable energy infrastructure. Applicants should note that eligibility appears open-ended, though emphasis is clearly placed on deep tech research within the scientific and engineering domains relevant to climate and energy technology substitution.