NWO Open Mind 2026

Open Mind funds innovative research proposals that break through conventional thinking frameworks and use technology for sustainable social impact. Think of ideas that, for example, transform education, promote inclusivity, tackle climate issues or enable new forms of communication. The call invites researchers from all disciplines who tackle global challenges with groundbreaking and creative solutions. Researchers with exciting, high-risk, high-gain ideas are encouraged to submit their outside-the-box research proposals and compete for a chance to receive €100,000 to explore their research ideas over the course of one year.