The SENSE Foundation Brussels has opened applications for its 2026 grant programme aimed at supporting projects related to scientific research, environmental protection, sustainable development, health initiatives, and educational advancement. The Belgium-based private foundation provides funding to nonprofit organizations and students both within Belgium and internationally, focusing on projects that promote long-term social and environmental impact.
Founded in 2019, the SENSE Foundation Brussels operates under the principle that science and education can play a major role in protecting human health and the environment. The organization supports initiatives connected to genetics, nutrition, environmental sustainability, and healthcare improvement while also promoting inclusion, equality, and diversity. Special consideration is often given to projects benefiting women, minority groups, and Women in STEM fields.
The 2026 grant programme offers one-time financial contributions of up to €25,000 per project. According to the foundation’s guidelines, the funding can cover a maximum of 25% of a project’s total annual costs, with only a limited portion allocated to administrative overheads. The grants are intended to act as catalytic funding that helps organizations secure additional support and expand the reach of their initiatives.
Eligible applicants include legally registered nonprofit organizations with at least two years of operational history and demonstrated project experience. The programme also supports students conducting research or studies in science, sustainability, genetics, nutrition, and selected arts and culture disciplines who may require financial assistance. Organizations registered after January 1, 2024, are not eligible to apply for the current funding cycle.
The foundation has identified several core funding priorities for 2026, including scientific research projects, environmental conservation efforts, sustainable development programmes, and initiatives focused on improving public health. While the organization supports a broad range of health-related work, it notes that mental health projects are not currently considered a primary funding focus.
Applications are reviewed through a multi-stage evaluation process that considers project impact, sustainability, methodology, and alignment with the foundation’s values. Projects demonstrating measurable long-term outcomes and inclusive community benefits are expected to receive stronger consideration. The foundation also prioritizes initiatives capable of creating broader societal improvements through science, innovation, and education.
The SENSE Foundation Brussels has previously supported projects in areas such as rainforest conservation, renewable energy access, healthcare infrastructure, plastic pollution research, agroecology, and humanitarian resilience programmes. Many supported initiatives combine environmental sustainability with healthcare access and community development, particularly in vulnerable regions across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
For the 2026 funding cycle, the foundation has established two application deadlines. The first round closes on April 30, 2026, while the second submission deadline is September 30, 2026. Selected applicants will receive funding decisions later in the year following committee review and project evaluation.
