18
Aug
2026
A new application procedure has been introduced for the “Research Cooperation Lower Saxony–Israel” funding programme. A preliminary proposal process is intended to reduce the workload for all parties involved. It will apply for the first time from the deadline in spring 2027.
From the next deadline onwards, those interested in the call for proposals will initially only need to submit a brief outline of the project. The aim is to provide, in a maximum of three pages, a general overview of the project idea, the methodology, the division of labour, the budget and an outlook on potential follow-up funding. In addition, a short video is required in which applicants explain their planned project in a maximum of three minutes. The video should give the assessors an impression of the collaborative team and may well be technically simple – for example, a recorded video call.
These outlines and videos will then be assessed by a committee, after which a selection of interested parties will be asked to present their project in a full application by a further deadline in summer.
These outlines and videos are then assessed by a panel, after which a selection of applicants are invited to present their project in a full application by a further deadline in summer.
The new procedure is intended to reduce the workload for applicants, assessors and the funding body alike. In recent years, the Volkswagen Foundation has received around 70 applications per call for proposals. With a fixed budget, the funding rate was correspondingly low, whilst the workload for all those involved was high. The new procedure is intended to improve both of these aspects. It will also enable most applicants to receive feedback earlier, thereby providing greater planning certainty.
By the end of 2026, the new Information for Applicants setting out the precise formalities of the procedure will be available on the funding programme’s website.
Photo (preview): artistdesign_de / ivan – stock.adobe.de