The Finnish Quantum Flagship (FQF) opens its first call for lighthouse and exploratory projects as part of Program 4: Quantum Future (P4). This is the first of three planned calls during the course of the flagship (2024, 2026, 2028). Each call will result in the funding of 1-2 high-impact lighthouse projects and/or 1-2 smaller exploratory projects.
Objective:
Lighthouses are seed projects that aim for significant scientific breakthroughs and real commercial prospects by leveraging synergies between various flagship programs. In addition to lighthouse projects, smaller-scale exploratory projects are also considered under Program 4. Exploratory projects should aim at exploring high-risk, high-reward ideas. Whether a lighthouse or exploratory project, they are expected to produce impactful results that benefit flagship groups and the broader Finnish quantum community.
Key Considerations:
- Synergy: For lighthouse projects, demonstration of collaboration between at least two programs and three PIs (including one external PI) is considered an advantage. For smaller exploratory projects, demonstration of collaboration between at least two PIs is considered an advantage.
- Collaboration may extend beyond FQF PIs but is expected to remain within the FQF hosting organizations. For potential collaborations outside the FQF hosting organizations, corresponding funding must be secured.
- Collaboration may extend beyond FQF PIs but is expected to remain within the FQF hosting organizations. For potential collaborations outside the FQF hosting organizations, corresponding funding must be secured.
- Impact and Outcomes: Lighthouse projects should enable significant scientific advancements and must have clearly defined outcomes, with the potential to lead to commercial/innovative applications or a distinctive direction for the Finnish quantum community different from existing global pathways. Exploratory projects should aim at early development or implementation of high-risk, high-reward ideas.
Funding & Duration:
The total funding from FQF for each lighthouse and exploratory project in this call is not to exceed €150,000* and €75,000* respectively, for a 2-year period. Securing external funding in addition to FQF resources is encouraged. Granted projects are to be started in 2025. A proposal of maximum 3 pages that includes a clear description of the scientific and technological objectives, methodology, project plan and milestones, deliverables, and conflicts of interests.
*It is expected that hosting organization of each engaged PI contributes to co-funding the project.
Application Components:
- A proposal of maximum 3 pages that includes a clear description of the scientific
and technological objectives, methodology, project plan and milestones,
deliverables, and conflicts of interests. - A detailed budget plan of max 1 page including each hosting institution’s contribution.
Evaluation Process:
Proposals will be reviewed by an expert panel of at least three members, including external reviewers with deep knowledge of quantum science and technologies. Conflict of interest will be considered during the review process.
The proposals will be assessed in terms of synergy, impact, and anticipated outcomes. If enough funding is available but the proposals do not pass the evaluation, the funding will be reserved for future calls for larger-scale projects.
The final decision is made by a committee consisting of the FQF management team and at least one member from all FQF hosting organizations.
Application Process:
- Call period: November 25th 2024- January 26th 2025 (the submission portal opens November 25th 2024)
- Application review: January 26th to February 28th 2025
- An interview/pitching session will be held in week 8 or 9, 2025
- An interview/pitching session will be held in week 8 or 9, 2025
- Granted applications announcement: March 3rd 2025
