Amt der Steiermärkischen Landesregierung, Abteilung 12 Wirtschaft, Tourismus, Wissenschaft und Forschung

The Zukunftsfonds Steiermark is operated by the Office of the Styrian Provincial Government, Department 12 Economy, Tourism, Science and Research (Division Science and Research). It was established on 28 May 2001 by the Styrian Provincial Government to promote innovative and forward-looking projects in the fields of economy, science, research, technology, qualification, youth, as well as art and culture. Through annually announced programs and competitions, the fund provides impetus to strengthen Styria as a research location and contributes to increasing the R&D quota and the international competitiveness of the region.

The Zukunftsfonds Steiermark aims to ensure the long-term and sustainable development capacity of Styria through targeted start-up funding, pilot projects, and program-oriented research support. It operates according to the subsidiarity principle, complements existing federal instruments, and focuses on excellence and quality in research and innovation. In doing so, national and European funding is to be effectively co-financed, and synergies between science, business, and society are to be strengthened.

Primarily funded are universities and non-university research institutions in Styria. Additionally, companies, associations, and NGOs with a pilot character, as well as initiatives for the establishment of new research institutions and infrastructures, may also submit applications. The calls for proposals are aimed at actors who, through conceptual preliminary studies, interdisciplinary research projects, or innovative technological developments, are expected to generate a special added value and multiplier effect for the Styria location.