⚠ Summarised by AI based on an external source. Last updated: 9 Mar 2026. Starthubs is not liable for any inaccuracies. Always consult the official challenge information.
NWO opens a KIC call for interdisciplinary research into the optimisation of mechatronic and optomechatronic system design. These technologies are critical for high-tech instruments and machines used in the semiconductor industry, medical technology, robotics, aerospace and precision agriculture. Each project can receive €600,000 to €3.2 million in NWO funding for up to six years. Consortia must include at least two co-funding partners — companies and startups in high-tech systems and precision engineering can join as co-funders or collaboration partners. The deadline is 21 April 2026.
What is NWO looking for?
NWO seeks proposals for interdisciplinary research that combines fundamental and practice-oriented approaches to optimise the design of (opto)mechatronic systems. These systems contribute to the development of high-tech instruments and machines that address societal challenges such as improving healthcare quality and production efficiency. Applicants are encouraged to form broad consortia with partners from various sectors including government institutions, TO2 institutes, societal organisations and companies. The call covers sectors such as:
- Semiconductor industry and lithography equipment
- Medical technology and precision instruments
- Robotics and automation
- Aerospace systems
- Precision agriculture
Full details are available in the official call for proposals on the NWO website.
Who is this for?
- Main applicant: researcher with a permanent position at a Dutch university, UMC, KNAW/NWO institute or professor at a university of applied sciences
- At least one co-applicant from an eligible research organisation
- At least two co-funders are mandatory — companies (startups, SMEs and corporates) in high-tech manufacturing, precision engineering and related sectors can fill this role
- Additional cooperation partners are welcome
- All consortium partners must play an active role in formulating the research questions and in project design and implementation
What's in it for you?
- €600,000 to €3.2 million NWO funding per project — NWO covers 50–80% of the total project budget
- Project duration up to six years for deep R&D collaborations
- Direct collaboration with leading Dutch research groups in mechatronics and optomechatronics
- Positioning in the Dutch high-tech ecosystem — the Netherlands is a global leader in precision equipment (ASML, Philips, Demcon, VDL)
- A matchmaking event was held on 11 December 2025; applicants can still use NWO's Innovation Desk to find consortium partners