# KWF Exploration Call 2026-3

**Funder:** Dutch Cancer Society (KWF)
**Budget:** Variable (Research Project, Consortium, Unique High-Risk)
**Deadline:** 31 March 2026 (Pre-proposals close 31 Mar 2026. Full proposals Jun-Sep 2026. Consortium interviews Nov 2026. Decision Dec 2026. Basic research & credentialing phases.)
**Duration:** 2-5 years
**Consortium:** Optional
**Application:** Pre-proposal → Full proposal (by invitation) → Consortium interview (if applicable) → Decision
**TRL:** 1-3
**Frequency:** 2-3x per year
**Next round:** September 2026
**Official call:** https://www.kwf.nl/en/forresearchers/funding/exploration
**Last verified:** 14 June 2026

## Summary

The KWF Exploration Call funds early-stage cancer research projects at TRL 1-3, with budgets ranging from €200,000 to €2.5 million over 2-5 years. Researchers can apply as individuals, multi-institutional consortia, or with a unique high-risk structure; the call runs 2-3 times per year, making it a frequent entry point for exploratory oncology work in the Netherlands and affiliated institutions.

## Who should apply

- Researchers at any career stage conducting basic or applied cancer research
- Individual labs, multi-institutional consortia, or high-risk exploratory teams
- Early-stage research projects (TRL 1-3) with proof-of-concept or foundational focus
- Applicants based at Dutch academic, hospital, or designated research institutions

## Key dates

- Pre-proposal deadline: 31 March 2026
- Multi-stage: Pre-proposal → Full proposal (by invitation) → Consortium interview (if applicable) → Final decision December 2026
- Project duration: 2-5 years

## Tips for applicants

- Clarity at pre-proposal stage is critical; use the 5-10 page format to articulate the unmet need and why early-stage work is justified before competitors expand to a full proposal.
- If you plan a consortium, name partners early and ensure letters of commitment are ready, consortium interviews carry weight in final ranking.
- Frame high-risk proposals explicitly: acknowledge the leap, but show preliminary data or conceptual bridging that makes the risk justified, not reckless.

## Frequently asked questions

### What is the budget range for the KWF Exploration Call?

Budgets range from €200,000 to €2.5 million depending on project scope and structure (individual project, consortium, or unique high-risk format).

### How long is a KWF Exploration Call project?

Projects run for 2-5 years; duration is tailored to the research question and budget.

### What is the pre-proposal deadline for KWF Exploration Call 2026-3?

Pre-proposals close 31 March 2026. Invited teams then submit full proposals, with consortium interviews and final decisions completing by December 2026.

### Can I apply to KWF Exploration Call as a consortium?

Yes, consortia are optional; you can apply as an individual lab, a multi-institutional team, or as a high-risk exploratory group.

### How often does the KWF Exploration Call open?

KWF runs this call 2-3 times per year, with the next expected round in September 2026.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/kwf-exploration-2026-3) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.