Funding
Dedicated funding mechanisms tailored to key focus areas and a wide range of innovation needs.
Driving the Sector Forward and Supporting Innovation at Every Level
Two funding mechanisms are available to support innovative ideas and projects aligned with our key focus areas: Systemic Projects and Innovation Vouchers.
Systemic Projects Funding
A funding mechanism designed for multidisciplinary, innovative and systemic projects with strong potential for economic impact and sustainability.
Key Focus Areas
- Biomass Valorisation
- Agriculture & Industry 4.0
- Consom'Actors & Innovation
Goals and Expected Impact
- Strengthen the innovation capacity and competitiveness of Fribourg's agricultural and agri-food sectors.
- Contribute to greater sustainability.
- Foster interdisciplinary collaboration, knowledge transfer and the exchange of expertise between companies and across public and private partners.
Who Can Apply?
- Consortia of companies based in the Canton of Fribourg (minimum of two companies)
- Consortia of companies and academic or R&D institutions
Minimum Requirements
- Partner contributions covering approximately 30% of the total project costs (through various forms of in-kind and/or financial contributions).
- A systemic approach, active involvement of end users, and integration of the different stakeholders throughout the project.
- Projects must be led by a consortium of companies, or by a consortium bringing together companies and research partners.
Innovation Vouchers
An initiative designed to encourage risk-taking in the early stages of innovation. Worth CHF 10,000 to CHF 15,000, these vouchers support initiatives led by associations, umbrella organisations, entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs (e.g. students) to help develop new business models.
Key Focus Areas
- Biomass Valorisation
- Agriculture & Industry 4.0
- Consom'Actors & Innovation
Goals and Expected Impact
Reduce risk and maximise the chances of success for promising ideas and early-stage projects, whether for commercial launch or to secure follow-on funding. Supported projects should foster interdisciplinary collaboration, knowledge transfer and the exchange of expertise between companies and across public and private partners.
Who Can Apply?
- Entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs in the agri-food sector, working individually or as a team.
- Industry value chains and umbrella organisations.
Minimum Requirements
- Entrepreneurs based in the Canton of Fribourg (at least one project partner must be based in Fribourg).
- Partnerships between companies, as well as collaborations involving companies, academic institutions and applied research organisations, are strongly encouraged.
- Projects or ideas must demonstrate a clear level of innovation and risk, strong potential for further development, and a highly motivated project team.