State subsidized programs
(national and international)

The Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) is the most important Swiss agency promoting scientific research. As mandated by the Swiss Federal government, it supports all disciplines.

In addition to its core activities in funding basis research, the SNFS supports two types of national programs; the National Research Programs (NRPs) and the National Centers of Competence in Research (NCCRs). Both programs provide funding for limited periods for coordinated research in specific areas that are more application oriented. The major objectives of these programs are collaboration with non-academic partners, knowledge and technology transfer and the application of research results. More on the subject of these programs can be found on the SNFS homepage.

Innosuisse encourages cooperation between Swiss firms and the universities. It supports R&D projects targeted at material, process or product innovations. Innosuisse generally sponsors up to a maximum of 50 % of the total project costs. The Innosuisse grant is reserved for the academic partner. The industry partner takes over the remaining costs by providing resources (staff and physical resources) and cash payments.

In selected fields Innosuisse supports special sponsor programs. Further information on this subject can be found on the Innosuisse homepage.

Switzerland participates in the European research and development programs, such as Horizon 2020, COST, and EUREKA. In such programs a special focus is usually put on the participation of the private sector. Further information on this subject is provided by Euresearch Switzerland in Bern or its local offices situated at the universities.