The Foundation for Polish Science (FNP) is launching a call for proposals under the FIRST TEAM programme. Researchers planning to establish their own research teams and carry out innovative projects in Poland may receive up to PLN 4 million in funding. The total budget of the call is PLN 52 million. Applications will be accepted from 20 January to 17 February 2026. Application documents may be submitted in Polish or – for the first time in this edition – in English. FIRST TEAM is funded under the European Funds for a Modern Economy Programme 2021–2027 (FENG).
FIRST TEAM is designed to support researchers at an early stage of their careers in becoming independent research leaders. The programme aims to help young researchers build scientific independence while strengthening cooperation with international research institutions and the business sector. It also seeks to increase the competitiveness of Polish applications submitted to European Research Council (ERC) calls.
The programme is open to researchers of any nationality who obtained their PhD between 2 and 9 years before submitting their application. The Foundation invites applications for original and innovative research projects with strong potential for practical application.
Applicants are also required to establish cooperation with a business partner in Poland and an international research partner. Team leaders will receive funding to establish a research team and implement their own research project. Each team may receive up to PLN 4 million. Funding may be used, among other things, to cover personnel costs and purchase research equipment necessary for project implementation.
