In order to provide a coordinated response to the coronavirus pandemic, the Luxembourg research community has set up a COVID-19 Task Force involving the country’s major research institutions. As part of the Task Force’s activities, the FNR has launched a rapid call to provide initial (co-)funding to short-term research projects as well as to the initial phase of long-term initiatives targeting COVID-19. Funding is allocated through a fast-track mechanism that makes it possible to support urgent research projects which need to start immediately.
Joint proposals welcome
Luxinnovation, the national innovation agency, is in charge of mobilising and coordinating private partner initiatives related to the COVID-19 Task Force’s activities. The agency has worked together with the FNR to open the call for proposals to public-private partnerships. Private companies and public research organisations can now submit common research project proposals. The public research partners of approved projects will receive funding from the FNR, and private companies from the Ministry of the Economy.
The proposals will go through a joint evaluation process involving both the FNR and the Ministry of the Economy. Luxinnovation will advise companies on their participation and provide support during the proposal evaluation process.