Competitive application procedure
In order to encourage innovative research within a limited, variable budget framework, the Foundation uses a competitive application procedure.
This usually takes place in a two-stage process where in stage one, after a call for proposals, the Foundation receives preapplications, after which in stage two a smaller number of applicants are invited to submit complete applications. The Foundation does not normally consider applications submitted without a preceding call for proposals.
All programmes are concluded after the agreement period, which is usually five years. The quality and relevance of the completed research activity are evaluated and the experience is fed back.