# ZonMw Open Competition 2026

**Funder:** ZonMw
**Budget:** €800k–€1,050k
**Deadline:** 15 September 2026 (Full proposal deadline: 15 September 2026, 2 PM CEST. Pre-proposal deadline: 2 April 2026, 2 PM CEST)
**Duration:** 4-5 years
**Consortium:** Required — team science with multiple research groups
**Application:** 2-stage: pre-proposal → full proposal
**Official call:** https://www.zonmw.nl/en/subsidy/zonmw-open-competition-2026
**Last verified:** 18 June 2026

## Summary

The ZonMw Open Competition 2026 funds health and care research projects with €800,000-€1,050,000 over four to five years, requiring multidisciplinary consortia of at least two research groups. The call is open to researchers across all health and care disciplines in the Netherlands, prioritising team science and translational impact. This is a two-stage competition with a pre-proposal gate in April followed by full proposals in September.

## Who should apply

- Researchers at Dutch academic medical centres, universities, or hospital institutions
- Project leads with capacity to coordinate multidisciplinary teams of two or more research groups
- Health and care research projects with translational or implementation focus
- Researchers able to demonstrate relevance to Dutch health or care policy and practice

## Key dates

- Pre-proposal deadline: 2 April 2026, 2 PM CEST
- Full proposal deadline: 15 September 2026, 2 PM CEST
- Project duration: 4-5 years

## Tips for applicants

- Consortium composition is scored, avoid token partnerships; each group must have a named, distinct research role with clear deliverables.
- The pre-proposal stage is highly selective; focus on health system impact and policy relevance, not just scientific novelty.
- Letters of commitment from all co-investigators and partner organisations are mandatory for the full proposal; secure these early.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does the ZonMw Open Competition 2026 award?

Between €800,000 and €1,050,000 per project over four to five years.

### Is a consortium required for the ZonMw Open Competition?

Yes, projects must involve at least two independent research groups working collaboratively; solo applications are not eligible.

### What are the deadlines for ZonMw Open Competition 2026?

Pre-proposals are due 2 April 2026 at 2 PM CEST; full proposals are due 15 September 2026 at 2 PM CEST. Only shortlisted pre-proposals advance to the full stage.

### Who can apply to the ZonMw Open Competition?

Researchers at Dutch academic, university, and hospital institutions across all health and care disciplines.

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

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