Funding of projects on the topic "The Fascination of Fusion Research – Making Future Energy Tangible through Outreach"

The grant program of the Federal Ministry for Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) supports project-based outreach initiatives that make the fascination of fusion research as a future energy source tangible. The goal is to promote innovative educational and communication formats that inspire a wide range of target groups – from school pupils and students to interested citizens – about the potential of nuclear fusion. Funding extends to nationwide educational institutions and companies that are already engaged with nuclear fusion or are designing corresponding communication formats. Submissions are made in two stages: In the first phase, project outlines must be submitted to the commissioned project management agency VDI Technologiezentrum GmbH by no later than 17.07.2026. The grant covers expenses for didactic materials, public events, digital learning offerings, and cooperative formats that strengthen the dialogue between research and society.

Participating institutions benefit from expert support by the VDI Technologiezentrum, which provides advice on the development of funding priorities, evaluates the project outlines, and assists throughout the further application and implementation process. The program contributes to increasing the visibility of fusion research in Germany and sets new impulses for the research and acceptance of future fusion power plants. Educational institutions and companies thus have the opportunity to contribute their expertise in the fields of energy efficiency, renewable energies, and climate protection and to implement innovative outreach concepts. The selection and approval of suitable projects are carried out following expert review to ensure efficient use of funds and maximum reach.