SNSF
Spark
Previous call deadline was 4 March 2025 at 17:00 Swiss local time; next call deadline to be communicated in due course
Last verified:
SNSF Spark funds exploratory research projects across all disciplines with CHF 50,000-100,000 for six months to one year (up to two years in exceptional cases). The call targets researchers holding a doctorate and employed at a Swiss institution, working on innovative ideas with high risk-benefit potential. Proposals are single-author, submitted in full anonymity, and calls run annually.
Details
| Funder | SNSF |
| Budget | CHF 50,000–100,000 |
| Duration | 6 months to 1 year (up to 2 years in exceptional cases) |
| Consortium | No |
| Application | Single stage; submitted via mySNF platform |
| Frequency | Annual |
| Eligible countries | CH |
Eligibility & scope
Open to all disciplines. Applicants must hold a doctorate (or equivalent) and be employed at an eligible Swiss host institution (RIPA Art. 4/5). Single applicant only; no parallel Spark projects permitted. Proposals must be submitted in English and fully anonymised. Projects for directly commercial purposes are not funded. Salary may be covered by the grant.
Who Should Apply
- •Doctorate holders employed at a Swiss institution (RIPA-eligible)
- •Researchers with innovative, high-risk ideas needing rapid proof-of-concept
- •Single applicants only; consortium projects are not eligible
- •All disciplines welcome
Key Dates
- •Previous call deadline 4 March 2025 at 17:00 Swiss time; next deadline to be announced
- •Single-stage application via mySNF
- •Project duration 6 months to 1 year (exceptionally up to 2 years)
Tips for Applicants
- ✓Your project description is fully anonymised during review, avoid any identifying details about your lab or institution.
- ✓Spark prioritises conceptual innovation and risk tolerance; frame the scientific gap and boldness clearly, not incremental feasibility.
- ✓Ineligible for concurrent SNSF grants (Bridge Proof of Concept, Postdoc.Mobility, Swiss Postdoctoral Fellowships); check your portfolio before submitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for SNSF Spark?
Researchers holding a doctorate and employed at a Swiss institution eligible under RIPA Articles 4-5; single applicants only.
How much funding does SNSF Spark offer?
CHF 50,000-100,000 for projects lasting six months to one year, or up to two years in exceptional cases.
Are consortium projects eligible for SNSF Spark?
No, Spark is for single applicants only; consortium or multi-partner projects are ineligible.
How often does SNSF run the Spark call?
Annually; the previous deadline was 4 March 2025, and the next deadline will be communicated by SNSF.
Related on Grantsby
- SNSF writing tips & FAQ
Evaluation criteria, proposal structure, common mistakes.
Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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