# Kiem

**Funder:** Regieorgaan SIA
**Deadline:** 15 September 2026 (14.00 uur)
**Duration:** 1 year
**Consortium:** Required — applicant institution + minimum 2 practice partners, of which at least 1 SME
**Frequency:** Annual
**Eligible countries:** NL
**Official call:** https://regieorgaan-sia.nl/financiering/kiem/
**Last verified:** 2 August 2026

## Eligibility & scope

1-year exploratory research by hogescholen, universities or other knowledge institutions, together with 2 practice partners of which at least 1 SME. Dutch knowledge institutions only.

## Summary

Kiem funds one-year exploratory research projects led by Dutch knowledge institutions (universities, hogescholen, and other research bodies) in partnership with at least two practice partners, of which at least one must be an SME. The call prioritises applied research that bridges academic expertise and industry needs, with a focus on creating practical pathways from research to implementation.

## Who should apply

- Researchers at Dutch universities, hogescholen, or other accredited knowledge institutions
- Applicants able to convene a consortium of at least 2 practice partners, including minimum 1 SME
- Projects with clear applied research goals and industry engagement
- Teams seeking to pilot research ideas in collaboration with end-users or practitioners

## Key dates

- Deadline 15 September 2026 at 14:00 (Amsterdam time)
- One-year project duration
- Annual call frequency

## Tips for applicants

- The consortium structure is non-negotiable: secure your SME partner(s) and other practice partners early, as their commitment letters shape reviewer confidence.
- Lead with the applied angle and industry problem statement, not academic novelty, Regieorgaan SIA prioritises work that practice partners will actually use.
- Clarify each partner's role and deliverables in the proposal; vague or token partnerships will score poorly.

## Frequently asked questions

### Who can apply for Kiem funding?

Dutch universities, hogescholen, and other accredited knowledge institutions, provided they lead a consortium with at least 2 practice partners, including at least 1 SME.

### How long is a Kiem project?

Kiem funds exploratory research lasting one year.

### Is Kiem open to researchers outside the Netherlands?

No, Kiem is for Dutch knowledge institutions only. All applicants must be based in the Netherlands.

### What is the consortium requirement for Kiem?

The applicant institution must lead a consortium that includes at least 2 practice partners, of which at least 1 must be an SME.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/regieorgaan-sia-kiem-2026-09) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.

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