Academic Anniversary Foundation of the City of Vienna for the Promotion of Science - Academic Anniversary Foundation of the City of Vienna for the Promotion of Science

What the Academic Anniversary Foundation of the City of Vienna funds

You will receive a one-off research grant of up to 20,000 EUR for a single, self-contained academic project. Most grants are smaller: the average grant amount is around 8,000 euros. These are project funds, not a scholarship to cover living costs or tuition fees. The City of Vienna established the fund in 1965 and awards grants every year. It is intended to fund genuine research projects. Bachelor’s theses, Master’s theses, doctoral theses and the writing of textbooks are not eligible for funding.

Who can apply

• Who you are: They are researchers, usually at a Viennese university or research institute. In certain cases, scientific associations or qualified individuals may also apply.
• Where you live or work: Your home address or place of work is in Vienna.
• Field of study (2026): For 2026, only projects from the fields of engineering and the natural sciences will be accepted. Projects from the Medical University and the University of Veterinary Medicine are excluded this year. The eligible subject areas vary from year to year.
• Type of work: Your proposal constitutes a clearly defined, independent research project.
• Nationality: All nationalities can apply.
• Age: Open to all age groups. Where two projects are of equal quality, preference will be given to young researchers.
• Vienna link: Your project does not necessarily have to be about Vienna, but projects with a link to Vienna will be given priority.

How to apply

You must submit your project application online via the City of Vienna’s portal as a single PDF file by 31 March each year. Late applications will not be considered under any circumstances. The funding committee reaches its decision in October, and funding is paid out from December onwards.

How realistic are your chances?

The criteria are narrowly defined: you need a base in Vienna, a genuine research project and, for 2026, a link to engineering or the natural sciences. This narrows the field down to a specific group of researchers. If you clearly meet these conditions and submit a well-reasoned application, your prospects are good. As a early-career researcher, you will have an advantage where projects are otherwise of equal merit. Please note that the average grant amount of around 8,000 EUR is significantly below the upper limit of 20,000 EUR; you should therefore plan a realistic budget.