Swiss Researcher–Sciencepreneur Collaboration Grant (RSCG) 2026 Opens Applications: Up to CHF 20,000 to Support Innovation Partnerships Between Switzerland and Sub-Saharan Africa

Researchers and innovation-driven entrepreneurs across Switzerland and Sub-Saharan Africa now have an exciting opportunity to collaborate through the Researcher–Sciencepreneur Collaboration Grant (RSCG) 2026. Launched by the Swiss Leading House Africa, the initiative seeks to bridge academic research and entrepreneurship by supporting partnerships that transform scientific knowledge into impactful innovations.

The RSCG 2026 program is designed to create stronger links between researchers and science-based ventures, helping innovative ideas move from laboratories into real-world applications capable of addressing societal and economic challenges.

What is the Researcher–Sciencepreneur Collaboration Grant (RSCG) 2026?

The Researcher–Sciencepreneur Collaboration Grant is a funding initiative established by the Swiss Leading House Africa. The program aims to promote collaboration between:

• Researchers and academics.
• Science-based startups and entrepreneurs.
• Innovation ecosystems in Switzerland and Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Institutions interested in translating research into practical solutions.

The grant encourages teams to jointly develop projects with clear pathways toward commercialization, societal impact, and sustainable development.

Funding Available

Selected projects can receive grants of up to CHF 20,000 to support collaborative activities and innovation development.

The funding is intended to strengthen partnerships and accelerate the transformation of scientific ideas into market-ready or socially impactful solutions.

Objectives of the Program

The initiative seeks to:

1. Foster stronger research and entrepreneurial collaborations.
2. Support science-based innovation ecosystems.
3. Create sustainable partnerships between Switzerland and Africa.
4. Enable ventures to establish a credible pathway to impact.
5. Promote knowledge exchange and capacity building.
6. Encourage research commercialization and innovation-driven entrepreneurship.

Who Can Participate?

The grant supports collaborative teams involving:

• Researchers from Switzerland.
• Researchers from Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Sciencepreneurs and startup founders.
• Innovation ventures based on scientific discoveries.
• Academic institutions.
• Technology-focused enterprises.

A project must include:

• At least one Swiss partner.
• At least one Sub-Saharan African partner.

Eligible African Countries

The program welcomes applicants from numerous countries across Sub-Saharan Africa, including:

• Malawi
• South Africa
• Kenya
• Uganda
• Rwanda
• Tanzania
• Zambia
• Zimbabwe
• Nigeria
• Ghana
• Ethiopia
• Mozambique
• Botswana
• Senegal
• Cameroon
• Namibia
• Sierra Leone
• Liberia
• Madagascar

And many other eligible countries within the region.

Application Requirements

Applications are submitted by the Swiss lead applicant through the F6S platform.

African partners participate as co-applicants.

Applications should include:

1. Venture Description

Applicants must explain the startup or innovation venture involved.

2. Project Outline

The proposal should clearly define:

• Objectives.
• Activities.
• Expected outcomes.
• Impact pathway.

3. Pitch Deck

Teams must provide a concise presentation highlighting:

• The problem being addressed.
• The innovation.
• Market opportunities.
• Collaboration strategy.

4. Two-Minute Video

Applicants are encouraged to introduce their collaboration through a short video featuring both partners whenever possible.

Why Apply?

Successful participants will benefit from:

Financial Support

Receive up to CHF 20,000 to advance collaborative innovation activities.

International Partnerships

Build long-term relationships between African and Swiss institutions and ventures.

Knowledge Exchange

Share expertise, technologies, and research capabilities.

Innovation Development

Transform research findings into practical solutions with commercial or societal impact.

Increased Visibility

Gain recognition through a prestigious international program supported by Swiss institutions.

Future Funding Opportunities

Strong collaborations established through RSCG may pave the way for larger research and innovation grants.

Application Timeline

• Call Opening: May 2026
• Application Deadline: 31 August 2026 (Midnight CET)
• Eligibility Screening: Week of 7 September 2026

How to Apply

Applications are submitted through the F6S platform by the Swiss lead applicant.

Applicants should begin preparations early to allow sufficient time for developing a strong proposal, pitch deck, and collaboration video.

Find more information about this opportunity on research+ official website

Deadline: 31 August 2026

Final Thoughts

The Researcher–Sciencepreneur Collaboration Grant (RSCG) 2026 represents a valuable opportunity for innovators, researchers, and science-based entrepreneurs across Switzerland and Sub-Saharan Africa. By supporting cross-border collaboration and innovation, the program seeks to turn scientific discoveries into practical solutions that create lasting social and economic impact.

Discover more global grant opportunities on OFY here