Thanks to the progress in the negotiations between CH and EU, researchers in CH can participate in the ERC Proof of Concept (PoC) 2025 call. Their proposals are evaluated by the ERC Executive Agency. In case of approval, if an association agreement is not in place, SERI will fund the projects.
ERC PoC grants aim at maximizing the value of the excellent research generated within previous ERC projects, by funding further work (testing, experimenting, demonstrating, etc) to establish proof of concept of an idea and to progress on the path from ground-breaking research towards innovation.
Only grantees of an ERC StG, CoG, AdG or SyG, that is ongoing or that ended after 1 January 2024, are eligible to apply for an ERC PoC.Applicants are allowed to apply with a different institution than the one where their ERC is/was implemented.
Max. EUR 150K, based on a lump sum scheme, for up to 12-18 months. No-cost extensions may only exceptionally be granted.
As of 2025, there will be two ERC PoC calls per year, one closing on 13 March 2025 and a second one on 18 September 2025.Proposals are reviewed in a single step by external experts. Results should be out by June 2025 and January 2026 respectively.
Proposals are evaluated on the basis of excellence according to three main criteria: breakthrough innovation potential, approach and methodology and strategic lead and project management of the PI. Proposals will have to be awarded a pass mark “very good” or “good” to be considered for funding.
Interested candidates must submit their expression of interest to USI Research Service (servizio.ricerca@usi.ch) by 13 February 2025 (for the 13 March deadline) or by 18 August 2025 (for the 18 September deadline).
Have a look at projects approved at the last call. The ERC database allows you to filter by discipline and grants you access to the abstracts.
