Call overview
The BMFTR BiodivDetect call supports collaborative research and development projects that use or advance technology to detect and assess understudied biodiversity in Germany. The call is open; the project outline date is 26 November 2026. The notice says this date is not a formal exclusion deadline, but late outlines may not be considered. First project starts are expected from Q4 2027.
Topics and scope
Projects should integrate all three themes: developing tools and using technology; detecting hidden biodiversity and understanding its ecological functions; and implementing technology and transferring results into applications. Examples include remote sensing, AI-supported image classification, robotics, eDNA/metabarcoding, automated image or acoustic systems, data integration and applied software for species description.
The focus is terrestrial ecosystems and inland aquatic ecosystems such as rivers and lakes. Marine systems are outside this call. Projects need clear application and transfer relevance and should involve relevant practice stakeholders.
Consortium and funding
Only collaborative projects are supported. The consortium must be interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary, name a coordinator, and explain stakeholder roles and continued use of the results. Eligible recipients include universities, research bodies, public institutions and businesses that make a justified contribution; recipients must have a German establishment or operating institution when funding is paid.
The grant is non-repayable. Requested funding should not exceed €1.5 million per consortium; projects usually run for 36 months. Non-economic research at universities and comparable institutions may receive up to 100% of eligible project expenses, plus a 20% project allowance for universities and university hospitals. Business funding rates depend on applicable state-aid rules and eligible costs; an appropriate own contribution is expected.
Submission
The consortium coordinator submits the outline. The German outline is limited to 12 pages including cover sheet and must follow the required structure and template. Selection is two-stage; successful outlines will be invited to submit a full application, currently expected in April 2027.
Official sources
- Project Management Jülich — call page, status and required outline template
- Official BMFTR funding guideline in the Federal Gazette (PDF)
- easy-Online — federal application portal
Checked 9 October 2026. The call page and guideline contain the full submission and cost rules.
