EQT Foundation has opened applications for its Science Grants program, offering €25,000 to €100,000 to support high-risk, high-impact deeptech research aimed at reducing dependence on critical minerals in climate technologies. The grants target scientists at accredited nonprofit institutions worldwide who are developing innovative solutions that can replace or significantly reduce the use of scarce raw materials in batteries, electric motors, power electronics, photovoltaics, and electrolyzers. With the global transition to net zero reliant on these technologies, critical mineral supply bottlenecks pose environmental, social, and economic risks, making scalable alternatives essential for decarbonization efforts.
The program focuses on frontier science that combines deeptech innovation with climate applications, including substitutes for critical minerals in energy storage and conversion, rare-earth-free magnets and machines, earth-abundant materials for solar and grid technologies, and circular approaches through recycling, reuse, and “virtual” substitution. Beyond funding, grantees gain access to EQT’s global network of technical experts, industry partners, and commercialization support to accelerate the translation of scientific discoveries into deployable solutions. Applications are open from January 27 to February 25, 2026, and will be evaluated by a panel of scientific and technical experts, with shortlisted candidates invited for interviews before final selections are announced.
