Funding of Projects on the Topic "Sustainable Financial Systems in Global Change (Future Finance)"

The nationwide funding initiative “Sustainable Financial Sector in Global Transformation (Future Finance)” of the Federal Ministry for Research, Technology and Spaceflight (BMFTR) supports interdisciplinary projects researching at the intersection of finance and sustainability. The goal is to deepen scientific foundations and develop practice-oriented concepts and instruments to more effectively mobilize private capital for climate protection and climate adaptation. Consortia composed of universities, research institutions, companies, municipalities, and associations are sought to collaboratively develop innovative solutions and derive recommendations for financial actors, political decision-makers, and regulatory authorities. The thematic modules focus on climate protection, climate adaptation, carbon markets, ecosystems, as well as new developments in a globally interconnected financial sector and align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Accompanying research strengthens practical relevance, promotes science communication, and ensures efficient knowledge transfer.

The project duration is generally 36 months; grants are awarded as non-repayable subsidies. Interested interdisciplinary consortia initially submit project outlines by January 25, 2026, via the electronic application system “easy-Online”; the invitation to submit a full proposal will be issued by March 14, 2026. Required are a content-structured outline according to the template, a formal full proposal in accordance with AZA/AZK guidelines, and a cover sheet with financial and partner overview. In addition to scientific excellence and innovation relevance, practical applicability, interdisciplinary networking, and relevance to climate protection and adaptation are considered in the evaluation. A special focus lies on promoting project leadership by female scientists and practitioners to increase the proportion of women in leadership roles and strengthen diversity in the research field.