Call for
Challenges in forest management Climate change, biodiversity, ecosystem services & forest products 2025
Application Deadline:
22 September 2025
About Organisation
Velux Stiftung is a Swiss-based philanthropic foundation that champions scientific research with a strong focus on practical impact. Primarily supporting forestry research within Switzerland and internationally, the foundation is dedicated to driving meaningful change through science. Velux Stiftung believes that impactful research must go beyond academic contributions and seeks to fund projects that translate findings into real-world actions. Their approach centers on supporting interdisciplinary, unconventional, and underfunded initiatives that have the potential to create long-lasting, sustainable impacts. The foundation is particularly committed to projects that address crucial challenges in forestry management, climate adaptation, and biodiversity preservation. Velux Stiftung values researchers who act as knowledge entrepreneurs—individuals who not only generate knowledge but also strategize its application for societal benefit. Grantees are expected to have a clear vision of their intended impact, identify the appropriate stakeholders, and design pathways for effectively communicating and applying their research. By fostering collaboration between scientific and practical communities, the foundation aims to promote sustainable forest ecosystems while addressing global needs for forest products. Ultimately, Velux Stiftung envisions a world where scientific knowledge is seamlessly integrated into forestry practice, contributing to ecosystem resilience, climate change mitigation, and biodiversity enhancement.
About the Grant
Velux Stiftung offers grant funding to support pioneering forestry research and collaborative science-practice projects. The grant is designed for initiatives that incorporate novel, interdisciplinary, and stakeholder-inclusive approaches to sustainable forest management. Supported projects must aim to generate real-world change and encourage knowledge transfer beyond academic circles. Two primary project types are eligible: research projects and science-practice collaborations. Research projects must demonstrate innovation and practical relevance, involving stakeholders throughout the process. At least 10% of the budget must be dedicated to knowledge dissemination. Science-practice projects, on the other hand, aim to improve communication between researchers and practitioners, resulting in tools, resources, or communication products that enhance forest management accessibility and application. The thematic emphasis lies on promoting biodiversity, climate change adaptation, and behavioral transformation towards sustainability in forest use and valuation. Funding is available for projects lasting between one to four years, with a focus on impactful partnerships and interdisciplinary collaboration. Velux Stiftung seeks to foster a transformative perspective in forest management, prioritizing both ecological stability and global demands for forest products. The overarching goal is to make sustainable forest practices a standard by enabling dialogue and co-creation between scientific and local forest stakeholders.
Who can Apply?
Applications are open to interdisciplinary teams committed to impactful and sustainable forest management. Eligible applicants must represent at least two distinct institutions—this could include academic organizations, research centers, NGOs, government bodies, or community-based institutions. Collaboration is essential, and all projects must include stakeholders such as forest managers, indigenous communities, policy makers, or conservationists. The grant supports individuals and teams who combine scientific research with practical implementation, placing emphasis on real-world application and long-term societal benefits. Applicants should possess a visionary outlook with a clear strategy for translating their findings into practical solutions. Both academic researchers and practice-based professionals are encouraged to apply, especially if their work addresses underexplored areas in sustainable forestry, biodiversity conservation, or climate resilience. Projects must demonstrate a strong participatory approach and a commitment to knowledge sharing. For science-practice initiatives, applicants must provide evidence of sustained cooperation and shared goals between the parties involved. Velux Stiftung particularly supports unconventional and bold ideas that challenge existing paradigms, lack mainstream funding, and can contribute to a transformative shift in forest management practices. Strong proposals will focus on fostering ecosystems that are climate-resilient, biodiverse, and capable of meeting the growing global demand for forest resources sustainably.
How to Apply?
Applicants must submit a detailed proposal outlining their project’s objectives, methodology, stakeholder involvement, and intended impact. The proposal should demonstrate innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a plan for knowledge transfer. Applications must include a realistic budget and outline at least 10% for outreach or practical communication. Proposals must be submitted by the deadline through the foundation’s designated process. Final decisions will be announced after a comprehensive review and evaluation.
Application Deadline
The deadline to submit proposals for the Velux Stiftung Forest Research Grant is 22 September 2025, by 23:59 CEST. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Last Date To Apply
The final submission date for the Velux Stiftung grant is 22nd September 2025. Ensure all project documentation and partner details are completed and submitted before the deadline for eligibility.
Grant Amount
Successful applicants may receive funding of up to CHF 100,000 per year. Projects may run for a duration of one to four years, depending on scope and proposed activities.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
