On 8th February 2023, the Technology Agency of the Czech Republic announced the second public competition in the Programme for the Support of Applied Research and Innovation SIGMA - Sub-objective 2: Early-career researchers and equalisation of opportunities in applied research projects.

SIGMA - DC2 aims to increase the involvement of early-career researchers in all areas of applied research in specific projects directly with subjects from the application practice. Another objective is to promote equal opportunities for women and men in the applied research competition.

The project must involve at least one research organisation and at least one small enterprise. The maximum level of support is 85%. The maximum amount of financial support per project is EUR 5 million. The maximum amount of funding is CZK 5 million. The research team must consist only of young researchers up to 35 years of age, and a mentor is allowed. Other persons in the team (technical and administrative staff are not limited by age).

Detailed information necessary for the preparation and submission of the project proposal, including information on the evaluation method and criteria, is contained in the call for proposals and other documents associated with the call. Help notes for completing the project proposal are located directly in the ISTA information system. All information is available on the TACR website.

The competition period opens on 9th February 2023 at 9:00 am and closes on 5th April 2023.

If you are interested, please contact the Research and Development Department immediately, no later than 15th March.