EQT Foundation opens applications for breakthrough science grants to reduce dependence on critical minerals for the green transition

EQT Foundation is launching a new open call for proposals under its Science Grants program, focused on critical mineral substitutes for the green transition. The program will award catalytic, non-dilutive grants of €25,000 to €100,000 to researchers developing high-risk, high-impact deeptech solutions that reduce or eliminate the use of critical and strategic raw materials in key climate technologies. Designed to accelerate bold scientific ideas with strong translational potential, the call is open to scientists affiliated with accredited nonprofit institutions worldwide.

The global transition to net zero depends on technologies such as batteries, electric motors, power electronics, photovoltaics, and electrolyzers. Many of these rely on a narrow set of critical minerals whose supply is concentrated, volatile, and often associated with significant environmental and social costs. As demand for clean technologies scales, dependence on these materials risks creating bottlenecks, increasing costs, and slowing decarbonization efforts. (1)

This grant call aims to support frontier science that replaces or radically reduces the use of critical minerals, while improving performance, cost, and sustainability. The program seeks solutions that begin in the lab but are designed to move toward real-world deployment, helping to unlock resilient and scalable pathways for the green transition.

The program seeks research at the intersection of deeptech innovation and climate application, with a focus on:

Cilia Holmes Indahl, CEO of EQT Foundation, comments: “The green transition cannot scale if it remains constrained by a small set of critical minerals with fragile supply chains. Through this grant program, we aim to support bold scientists developing frontier materials and technologies that can fundamentally change how clean energy systems are built.”

In addition to funding, selected grantees will benefit from access to EQT’s global network, including technical experts, potential industry partners, and tailored commercialization and founder support to help bridge the gap from scientific discovery to scalable impact.

Applications open on January 27, 2026, and close on February 25, 2026, at 23:59 CET. 

Proposals will be reviewed by a panel of scientific, technical, and translational experts. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interviews with the EQT Foundation team, with final decisions communicated shortly thereafter.

To apply, visit:
https://eqtgroup.com/eqt-foundation/grant-submission

1. International Energy Agency. (2021). Reliable supply of minerals. In The role of critical minerals in clean energy transitions (World Energy Outlook Special Report). IEA. https://www.iea.org/reports/the-role-of-critical-minerals-in-clean-energy-transitions/reliable-supply-of-minerals

Contact
EQT Press Office, press@eqtpartners.com

About EQT

EQT is a purpose-driven global investment organization focused on active ownership strategies. With a Nordic heritage and a global mindset, EQT has a track record of more than three decades of developing companies across multiple geographies, sectors and strategies. EQT has investment strategies covering all phases of a business’ development, from start-up to maturity. EQT has EUR 267 billion in total assets under management (EUR 139 billion in fee-generating assets under management) as of 30 September 2025, within two business segments – Private Capital and Real Assets.

With its roots in the Wallenberg family’s entrepreneurial mindset and philosophy of long-term ownership, EQT is guided by a set of strong values and a distinct corporate culture. EQT manages and advises funds and vehicles that invest across the world with the mission to future-proof companies, generate attractive returns and make a positive impact with everything EQT does.

The EQT AB Group comprises EQT AB (publ) and its direct and indirect subsidiaries, which include general partners and fund managers of EQT funds as well as entities advising EQT funds. EQT has offices in more than 25 countries across Europe, Asia and the Americas and has more than 1,900 employees.

More info: www.eqtgroup.com
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About EQT Foundation

EQT Foundation is a philanthropic organisation and long-term shareholder of the global investment organization EQT, founded by partners at EQT. The Foundation supports scientists and entrepreneurs bringing breakthrough solutions from lab to market, combining EQT’s expertise with catalytic investments and grants. With a focus on supporting scientific progress in underfunded areas of climate and health, the Foundation provides a learning platform for EQT employees to develop and work collaboratively across the globe, while engaging in philanthropy and making a positive impact.

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