# NWO Talent Programme

**Funder:** NWO
**Consortium:** No
**Frequency:** Annual
**Eligible countries:** NL
**Official call:** https://www.nwo.nl/en/calls
**Last verified:** 18 June 2026

## Eligibility & scope

Three funding instruments (Veni, Vidi, Vici) tailored to various phases in researchers' scientific careers, enabling them to conduct independent research. Targets early- to mid-career researchers at Dutch institutions.

## Summary

The NWO Talent Programme offers three separate funding instruments, Veni, Vidi, and Vici, designed for early- to mid-career researchers at Dutch institutions to conduct independent research. Each tier targets a distinct career stage, from researchers recently past their PhD through established group leaders. Annual calls invite applications across all disciplines through NWO's domain councils (ENW, ZonMw, SGW).

## Who should apply

- Researchers at Dutch universities and research institutes
- Early-career investigators within 3 years of PhD (Veni tier)
- Mid-career researchers 5-15 years post-PhD (Vidi tier)
- Established group leaders (Vici tier)
- Applicants with a clearly independent research idea aligned with their NWO domain

## Key dates

- Annual deadline per NWO domain (ENW, ZonMw, SGW), dates vary by domain
- Two-stage evaluation: pre-proposal then full proposal with interview
- Project duration typically 3-5 years depending on tier

## Tips for applicants

- Apply through the correct NWO domain (ENW for natural sciences, ZonMw for health, SGW for social sciences); misdirected proposals risk triage delays.
- The interview is decisive, shortlisted candidates are assessed on feasibility and independence, so rehearse defending your work to a broad panel.
- Veni, Vidi, and Vici are separate calls; check eligibility criteria (career stage and time since PhD) to enter at the right tier.

## Frequently asked questions

### What are the three NWO Talent Programme funding tiers?

Veni for researchers within 3 years of their PhD, Vidi for mid-career researchers 5-15 years post-PhD, and Vici for established group leaders. Each has its own budget, duration, and eligibility window.

### Who can apply to the NWO Talent Programme?

Researchers based at Dutch universities, hospitals, and recognised research institutions, within the career-stage window of each tier (Veni, Vidi, or Vici).

### How often are NWO Talent Programme calls open?

Calls are annual, with deadlines managed per NWO domain (ENW, ZonMw, SGW); check the relevant domain's schedule for exact dates.

### Is the interview important in NWO Talent Programme selection?

Yes, shortlisted candidates are interviewed and the interview is a decisive stage in final ranking.

### Can I apply to multiple NWO Talent Programme tiers in the same year?

Generally no, you must apply to the tier matching your career stage and time since PhD. Concurrent applications to Veni and Vidi, for example, are typically not permitted.

---

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

**See which EU calls match your profile.** [Preview your matches in 30 seconds, no signup](https://grantsby.eu/demo?ref=llm_grant_md).