Novo Nordisk Foundation
Challenge Programme
14:00 Copenhagen time
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The Novo Nordisk Foundation Challenge Programme funds consortia of established research leaders to address major scientific challenges in sustainable materials and clean technologies using Earth-abundant elements. Awards range from DKK 30-75 million (€4-10 million) and are open to international applicants leading consortia with a clear shared vision. Projects operate at early TRL (1-3) and must align with the Novo Nordisk Foundation's natural sciences strategy.
Details
| Funder | Novo Nordisk Foundation |
| Budget | DKK 30-75 million per grant |
| Deadline | 7 October 2026 |
| Duration | 6 years |
| Consortium | Required — leading researchers forming a consortium united by a common vision and mission |
| Application | 2-stage: Stage 1 results December 2026 → Stage 2 results June 2027 |
| TRL | 1-3 |
| Frequency | Annual |
| Eligible countries | DK |
Eligibility & scope
Challenge Programme 2027 call focused on developing next-generation AMR diagnostics for lower respiratory tract infections; targets established research leaders forming international consortia within Danish/European research ecosystems.
Who Should Apply
- •Established research leaders and professors with strong publication and funding track records
- •Consortia with multiple institutional partners and a clearly articulated shared mission
- •Projects addressing scientific bottlenecks in Earth-abundant materials for sustainable technologies
- •Research groups capable of working at early technology readiness levels (TRL 1-3) on fundamental challenges
Key Dates
- •Stage 1 (pre-proposal) deadline: 7 October 2026, 2:00pm Copenhagen time
- •Two-stage evaluation: Stage 1 results December 2026; Stage 2 (full proposal) results June 2027
- •Project duration not specified; check call documentation
Tips for Applicants
- ✓Consortium composition is gating, the panel assesses both individual leader credibility and the team's shared vision; avoid loose collaborations that lack a unified research strategy.
- ✓Novo Nordisk prioritises research grounded in the Foundation's sustainability strategy; align your challenge statement to Earth-abundant materials and tangible decarbonisation or circular-economy outcomes.
- ✓Stage 1 is highly competitive; use the pre-proposal to demonstrate proof-of-concept for the scientific bottleneck you're solving, not just a general research direction.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I get from the Novo Nordisk Foundation Challenge Programme?
Grants range from DKK 30-75 million (approximately €4-10 million) per consortium project. The exact amount depends on the scope and consortia structure.
Do I need partners to apply for the Challenge Programme?
Yes, a consortium of research partners is required; the application must articulate a clear shared vision and mission across the team.
Who is eligible to apply for the Novo Nordisk Challenge Programme?
Established research leaders and professors can apply; international applicants are eligible provided they form a consortium that aligns with Novo Nordisk's natural sciences strategy.
What is the deadline for the Challenge Programme Stage 1?
The Stage 1 pre-proposal deadline is 7 October 2026 at 2:00pm Copenhagen time; Stage 1 results are announced in December 2026.
Related on Grantsby
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Challenge Programme, full programme guide
Eligibility, budget, success rates, application timeline, FAQ.
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Challenge Programme past winners & funded projects
Recent recipients, host institutions, and funded project titles. See who tends to win before you apply.
Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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