The Swedish Foundations’ Starting Grant supports outstanding early‑career researchers in Sweden. This initiative targets those who missed receiving an ERC Starting Grant due to limited funding. The grant enables them to continue their research and strengthen their future ERC applications.
About the Swedish Foundations’ Starting Grant
The Swedish Foundations’ Starting Grant is a collaboration between seven private funders in Sweden. It provides funding equivalent to an ERC Starting Grant to early‑career researchers based at Swedish host institutions. The program helps researchers advance their proposed projects and produce groundbreaking results.
Since its launch in 2015, it has supported talented researchers who missed ERC funding, giving them a competitive advantage for future applications. Anna Wetterbom, CEO of Ragnar Söderbergs stiftelse and the collaboration’s coordinator, emphasises that the grant enables exceptional researchers to continue their work despite stiff competition for ERC funding.
Participating funders include Erling Perssons Stiftelse, Kempestiftelserna, KK‑stiftelsen, Olle Engkvists Stiftelse, Ragnar Söderbergs stiftelse, Riksbankens Jubileumsfond, and Åforsk. The funding will match the level of an ERC Starting Grant, providing support sufficient to carry out independent research projects over several years.
Funding Size
- Provides funding equivalent to an ERC Starting Grant
- Supports independent research projects over multiple years
- Offers sufficient resources to carry out high‑impact research
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Who Can Apply for the Swedish Foundations’ Starting Grant
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Eligible organisation types
- Early‑career researchers based at Swedish host institutions
- Researchers who applied for an ERC Starting Grant and were among the top candidates
- Individuals capable of leading their proposed research independently
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Registration or legal documents
- Proof of affiliation with a Swedish host institution
- ERC Starting Grant application feedback or evaluation
- Research plan and project proposal aligned with grant objectives
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Project focus requirements
- Innovative research projects with high scientific impact
- Projects that demonstrate feasibility within the grant’s timeframe
- Research that advances knowledge and contributes to the applicant’s field
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Geographic eligibility
- Applicants must be based at institutions in Sweden
- Research projects must be conducted within Sweden
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Sector or thematic focus
- All academic disciplines are considered
- Emphasis on projects with potential for significant scientific contribution
- Focus on early‑career researchers demonstrating strong research potential
Application process
- Register with the Swedish Foundations’ Starting Grant portal
- Submit project proposal and supporting documents
- Provide proof of the ERC Starting Grant application and evaluation
- Complete all required institutional approvals before submission
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Required Materials
- Completed the application form through the grant portal
- Curriculum vitae (CV) including education, research experience, and publications
- ERC Starting Grant application feedback or evaluation
- Research project proposal outlining objectives, methodology, and expected impact
- Letter of support from the Swedish host institution confirming affiliation and resources
- Any additional supporting documents requested by the grant portal
Key Dates
- Application period opens: 29 September 2025
- Application period closes: 24 October 2026
- Review and shortlisting take place after the closing date
- Winners are announced shortly after the review period
- The application window lasts about four weeks
Selection Notes
- The grant is highly competitive, targeting top early‑career researchers
- The program focuses on high‑impact, independent research projects across all academic disciplines.
- Applicants who do not meet the ERC eligibility criteria or who do not have a Swedish host affiliation are excluded.
Official Source Of the Swedish Foundations’ Starting Grant
- Official Application Page: https://apply.soderbergs.org/sbs/ragnar/grandid/user/login/selectidp/bankid.deviceChoice
