The Foundation for Polish Science has opened the second round of applications for the FIRST TEAM initiative, funded by the European Funds for a Modern Economy 2021-2027 program. FIRST TEAM is an initiative led by the Foundation for Polish Science, aimed at attracting top young researchers from around the world to work in Polish research organizations and fostering international and business collaborations. Through FIRST TEAM, early-career researchers can apply for funding to establish a new research team and conduct R&D activities in collaboration with a foreign academic partner and a domestic business partner.
Applicants for this initiative must be research organizations that designate a project leader, who is the author of the research concept presented in the application. The leader must hold at least a doctoral degree, earned no earlier than 12 years before submitting the application to the FIRST TEAM call for proposals. Funding is available for original R&D projects that have potential for practical application and are significant in addressing economic or socio-economic challenges. The thematic scope of the projects is not limited to specific scientific fields but should align with the priorities listed in the National Smart Specializations register.
The funding does not cover basic research.
A single project can receive up to 4 million PLN in funding. The funds are awarded through a competitive process. A total of 64 million PLN has been allocated for projects in the first call of 2024. Applications will be accepted from September 23, 2024, until October 23, 2024, at 4:00 PM.
