The NATO Chief Scientist Grants Programme 2026 is a fully funded opportunity for researchers, innovators, and STEM professionals who aim to make a global impact. This prestigious grant supports projects that advance scientific knowledge, emerging technologies, and international security initiatives.
With a total funding pool of €500,000 and individual grants ranging from €25,000 to €100,000, the program empowers scientists to conduct high-quality research on defense, technology, and global security. It encourages collaboration among NATO member countries, promotes diversity in STEM, and strengthens the global science and technology ecosystem.
Benefits
Selected applicants will receive:
- Fully funded research support
- Grants between €25,000 and €100,000
- Opportunity to work on global security and defence challenges
- International exposure and collaboration
- Recognition from a leading global defence organization
- Career advancement in science, research, and innovation
- This is a unique chance to build your international research profile while contributing to real-world security solutions.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be nationals of NATO member countries
- Work with or be affiliated with:
- Government organizations
- Research institutions
- NGOs
- Private or public companies
- Reside in the same NATO country as their institution
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a detailed proposal that includes:
- Scientific objectives and innovation
- Relevance to NATO’s research themes
- Real-world security impact
- Economic feasibility
- Risk assessment and mitigation strategy
- Previous experience in similar research
Selected projects must typically be completed within the programme timeline.
Selection criteria
Between 16 March and 22 April the STO OCS will select the 2026 proposals. The evaluation and selection process will consist of:
- Shortlisting: After the call for applications closes the OCS will review all the proposals and will compile a list of shortlisted applicants which will be submitted to the NATO Chief Scientist.
- Independent review: The proposals will be evaluated and ranked by a panel composed from subject matter experts from NATO’s S&T community.
- Final Selection: The final selection will be confirmed by the NATO Chief Scientist. All applicants will be notified by 24 April 2026 regarding the outcome of the applications process. Successful applicants will advance to the Award phase (see 5.3.) and unsuccessful applicants will be retained in a reserve list and may be contacted in the future.
How to Apply?
- Ensure you are a researcher, innovator, or STEM professional and your project aligns with NATO’s S&T priorities.
- Draft a concise research plan detailing objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and relevance to global security or emerging technologies.
- Include CV, previous publications, institutional affiliation letter, and any letters of support from collaborators if applicable.
- Visit the NATO STO portal and create your account. Fill in all required fields accurately and upload your documents.
- Double-check all details and submit your application before the official closing date. Late applications will not be considered.
- Once submitted, you will receive an acknowledgment email confirming receipt of your application.
- Applications are evaluated based on innovation, impact, feasibility, and alignment with NATO objectives. Successful candidates will be contacted for the next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The NATO Chief Scientist Grants Programme 2026 funds strategic S&T research by NATO-country nationals. Applicants must align proposals to NATO S&T themes, demonstrate military and scientific impact, and follow a structured submission process from March to April 2026.
What is the NATO Chief Scientist Grants Programme 2026?
The NATO Chief Scientist Grants Programme 2026 is a fully funded initiative designed to support strategic Science & Technology work. It provides evidence-based research to inform NATO leadership and strengthen global defense, security, and scientific collaboration across NATO countries.
Who can apply for the NATO Chief Scientist Grants Programme 2026?
Applicants must be nationals of NATO member countries and work for affiliated government organizations, research institutes, NGOs, or private/public companies. They must also reside in a NATO country to qualify for this competitive grant opportunity.
What research themes are eligible for the grant?
The programme focuses on strategic S&T themes identified in NATO’s S&T Trends 2025. Projects should address high-level implications of emerging technologies on NATO security, deterrence, defense capabilities, and societal resilience rather than narrow technical applications.
What is the purpose of the grant?
The NATO Chief Scientist Grants Programme 2026 aims to support research and initiatives that inform NATO’s strategic S&T agenda. It encourages scenario analysis, foresight approaches, and studies on emerging technologies to strengthen the Alliance’s decision-making, crisis response, and critical infrastructure protection.
How much funding is available for individual projects?
Grants are fully funded, and the budget for each project is determined during the proposal stage. Applicants are expected to outline expected costs, potential risks, and the projected impact of their work on NATO’s core tasks and S&T strategy.
How can I apply for the NATO Chief Scientist Grants Programme 2026?
Applicants can submit proposals via the official online form. Proposals should address scientific relevance, alignment to S&T themes, expected outcomes, NATO impact, potential risks, and estimated costs. Detailed guidance is provided in the 2026 applicant handbook.
What is the selection process for the grant?
The selection process runs from 16 March to 22 April 2026 and involves shortlisting, independent review by subject experts, and final confirmation by the NATO Chief Scientist. Applicants are notified by 24 April 2026 about award decisions or reserve list placement.
What criteria are used to evaluate proposals?
Proposals are evaluated based on alignment to NATO S&T themes, scientific relevance, and military or strategic impact. High-quality submissions demonstrate clear objectives, anticipated results, and a meaningful contribution to NATO’s mission and innovation priorities.
Can research outside NATO member countries be funded?
No. Applicants must reside in a NATO country and work for qualifying institutions. Research proposals must directly benefit NATO’s strategic goals and the Alliance’s scientific knowledge base, focusing on defense, security, and technological foresight.
Are there any guidance sessions for applicants?
Yes. The Office of the Chief Scientist holds a Q&A session to guide potential applicants. For 2026, this session will be on 25 February at 15:00 CET. Registered participants receive instructions and clarifications to strengthen their proposal submission.
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