Digital Futures announces its first-ever call for Proof-of-Concept project grant applications, opening on April 28, 2026. The new funding instrument is a key part of Digital Futures’ Innovation Programme, designed to help researchers translate early-stage discoveries into validated methods, products, or processes with real-world impact. This is a recurrent call and will have 3-4 deadlines per calendar year.
The Proof-of-Concept project grants aim to bridge the gap between academic research and innovation by supporting the development of functional prototypes—ranging from software solutions to integrated hardware systems. Projects should demonstrate technical feasibility while also exploring commercial or societal potential, paving the way for future implementation, commercialisation, or open dissemination.
Researchers affiliated with KTH, Stockholm University, and RISE are eligible to apply.
Funded projects are expected to:
- Develop a working prototype demonstrating technical potential
- Assess the innovation’s economic or societal impact
- Engage with Digital Futures advisors throughout the project
- Present results, including a demonstrator, at the Digital Futures hub
Up to five projects will be funded for 4–12 months, with grants of up to 500 kSEK. Funding can be shared between PIs and Co-PIs, and selected projects may be considered for continued support. Collaboration with external partners is encouraged.
Key dates:
- Call announcement: April 28, 2026
- Declaration of interest deadline: May 22, 2026
- Proposal submission deadline: May 31, 2026 (23:59 CET)
- Expert pitch event and Expected funding decision: June 2026
- Project start: July 2026
Researchers interested in applying should submit a declaration of interest by May 22, 2026, followed by registration and full proposal submission through the designated application system.
Link to Digital Futures Proof-of-Concept Project Grants Call for 2026.
In case of any questions, reach out to Urban Forssell, Head of AI Strategy and Innovation, urbanf@kth.se, 073-765 05 88.
