With ENW-XL funding, the research idea can develop into a challenging and innovative research line of world-class, where research groups combine expertise and collaborate in a consortium. The ENW-XL funding is intended for conducting curiosity-driven fundamental scientific research that has an impact.
The Exact and Natural Sciences (ENW) domain wants to create space for wonder, discovery, unexpected connections, and inspiration. Within the Open Competition ENW, NWO funds free and unrestricted research within the research areas of ENW. The subject is of ones own choice, without thematic conditions.
Budget
An ENW-XL grant amounts to a minimum of € 1,000,000 and a maximum of € 3,000,000. Currently, 49.3 million euros is available for this call. The grant must be used for at least four scientific positions in combination with the other available budget modules. The maximum duration of the proposed project is 6 years.
The ENW domain wants to provide space for new talent in this round, which has received little other funding. The success rate of ENW-XL is about 10%. Be aware that NWO only funds world-class research here.
Planning
The deadline for submitting pre-applications is 16 September 2025, 14:00:00 CEST.
The deadline for submitting applications is 9 June 2026, 14:00:00 CEST.