The first round of the SSH Open Competitions XS 2026 is now open. SSH researchers who obtained their PhD at least five years ago and have a promising idea are eligible to apply. The deadline for submitting an application for the first round is 20 January 2026, before 14:00:00 CET.
This call focuses on curiosity-driven, innovative research and rapid analysis of promising ideas. In addition, the proposed research must fall within the SSH disciplines.
Applications within this call may not exceed a total of €50,000. The maximum duration of an XS project is two years.
Rounds 2026
In addition to this round, there will be two rounds in 2026. The second round will open in February, with a deadline of 7 April. The third round will open in July, with a deadline of 15 September.