On 1 July, NWO opened the KIC Call for proposals “Biochemical Diversity”. A total budget of 7 million euros is available, with a maximum of 1,360,000 euros per project. The call focuses on technology development that leverages the vast diversity of biochemical compounds and pathways found in nature. These innovations can contribute to new, sustainable production processes that are more efficient and effective than current methods. The KIC call is part of the Knowledge and Innovation Covenant (KIC) and targets public-private partnerships (PPP).

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Objective

The call focuses on exploring and harnessing the vast diversity of biochemical compounds and pathways found in nature. This natural information and inspiration can be used to develop substances and/or production processes that are more sustainable, efficient, and effective than current methods. The emphasis is on the (further) development of key enabling technologies that facilitate the exploration, analysis, and application of biochemical diversity.

Matchmaking

On 22 September 2025, NWO will organise a matchmaking event in Utrecht as part of this call. The event will take place from 13:00 to 17:00 (CET).

Programme and Registration

Key dates

  • Application deadline: Thursday 12 February 2026, before 14:00 CET
  • Deadline for submitting requests for assessment of foreign organisations: Thursday 29 January 2026, before 14:00 CET

Who can apply

This call for proposals is open to researchers from both universities and universities of applied sciences, working in close collaboration with private and societal organisations. Applications must be submitted by a main applicant together with one or more co-applicants. Professors, associate and assistant professors, lectors, and other researchers in comparable positions may act as main or co-applicants, provided they are employed on a permanent basis (i.e. hold a paid, open-ended employment contract) or have a tenure track agreement. Proposals must be submitted by a consortium, which includes the applicant(s) and one or more co-financing partners.


To the call