Discovery Grant

Discovery Grant is DTU’s own instrument for funding startup projects that emerge from research and innovation at DTU. It is often the first step on a startup journey for researchers.

At a glance: Up to 100,000 DKK · Max. 6 months · For DTU employees in Skylab Startup Programme Stage 1

The programme was fully subscribed this spring and reopens in a revised format in August 2026. The revision aligns demand with the available budget and coordinates the grant with the Skylab Startup Programme.

What it is for

The grant supports early development and maturation of a startup idea, or work to identify and validate specific applications and market potential. Monthly panel meetings keep the response time short.

• Grant amount up to 100,000 DKK
• Grant period of maximum 6 months
• Materials, consulting services, tests, reports and knowledge, travel, and salary directly related to the project
• The main applicant’s own salary cannot be covered

Discovery Grants are only for projects preparing for a startup. They are not for research, and they are not available if the innovation is already commercialised.

Who can apply

You need to be employed at DTU and enrolled in the Skylab Startup Programme, Stage 1. Talk to your DTU Skylab innovation partner to join the programme. The application must be endorsed and supported by your department and by that innovation partner.

Read more on the DTU Discovery Grants page.