The TREND program will continue until 2030! Great news for Czech research and development
Without much publicity, but with great significance. The Technology Agency of the Czech Republic has announced that the TREND program will continue until the end of 2030. In addition, public tenders will be announced annually until 2027. This is an excellent opportunity for Czech companies to continue developing new technologies, products, and services with grant support.
Budget increase – more money for good ideas
The extension of the program has also been accompanied by a significant budget increase. The total expenditure of the TREND program has risen to CZK 26.66 billion, with CZK 17.375 billion coming from public sources. That is almost double the original budget! In practice, this means more space for high-quality projects and a better chance of receiving support.
Who can apply and for what?
The TREND program is intended for companies of all sizes that want to carry out industrial research and development. It is ideal for companies that:
- have their own research capacities or experience in purchasing research services,
- want to innovate their products, processes, or services,
- plan to introduce automation, robotization, or digital technologies,
- are looking for a partner from among research organizations for a joint project.
The maximum amount of support is up to CZK 70 million per project, with the intensity of support being up to 70% for the sub-program for experienced companies (“Technology Leaders”) and up to 80% for the “Newcomers” sub-program, intended for companies that are just starting out in research and development.
Two subprograms – based on company experience
The TREND program distinguishes between two types of support:
- Technology Leaders: Support for companies that already have experience in research and development, either on their own or in cooperation with research organizations. The aim is to strengthen their market position by streamlining production or introducing new products and services through the application of new research results.
- Newcomers: Support for companies that do not yet have significant experience in research and development. It enables them to start development and innovation activities through cooperation with a research organization or university.
Why is this important?
TREND has long supported projects with high market potential and contributes to strengthening the competitiveness of Czech companies. At a time when innovation plays a key role in market success, the annual announcement of competitions until 2027 is a clear signal that the state recognizes the importance of technological development.
TREND has a successor, but still plays a key role
The TREND program already has a successor – the TWIST program, which focuses on supporting research in strategic technologies such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and quantum technologies. We have already reported on TWIST in a separate article. Nevertheless, TREND continues to maintain its strong position in supporting experimental research and development across the entire industry.
Don’t wait – get ready in time
The TREND program is one of the most sought-after grant programs in the field of industrial research. However, the success rate of projects is only around 20%, so it is crucial to have a well-prepared grant application and project plan. We will be happy to help you with this, with an emphasis on quality, efficiency, and the chance of success.
We expect at least one public tender to be announced before the end of this year, so follow us to make sure you don’t miss this important opportunity to grow your business!
