Applications are invited for the India-Sweden Collaborative Industrial R&D Programme 2025. The deadline for submission of application is November 14!
On June 30, 2025, the Technology Development Board (TDB), Ministry of Science & Technology, India, launched the India‑Sweden Collaborative Industrial Research & Development Programme 2025 in partnership with Sweden’s Innovation Agency, Vinnova. This joint Request for Proposals (RFP) aims to fund innovative, industry‑led R&D focused on the green transition in steel and cement industries, including AI-enabled solutions and sustainable materials.
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| RFP Launch | June 30, 2025 |
| Proposal Deadline (Vinnova) | November 14, 2025 – 2:00 PM CEST |
| Proposal Deadline (DST/TDB) | November 14, 2025 – 5:00 PM IST |
| Result Announcement (Estimated) | April 2026 |
| Project Start (Estimated) | May 2026 |
Note: No extensions or late submissions will be entertained. Submit well in advance.
Indian Side (Industrial Coordinator)
Swedish Side (Industrial Coordinator)
Projects must aim to achieve Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4–8, and must fall under at least one of the following focus areas:
| Focus Area | Description |
|---|---|
| AI as an Enabler | Smart emission monitoring, process optimization using AI. |
| Optimisation of Process | Green manufacturing methods in steel and cement industries. |
| Alternative Materials | Substitutes for traditional materials to enhance sustainability. |
| Impact Measurement Tools | Instruments to evaluate environmental or societal outcomes. |
Indian Funding (DST–TDB)
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Max Funding | ₹150 lakhs per project |
| Industry Share | 50% of eligible costs (matched funding model) |
| Academic Share | Up to 100%, balanced with industry share |
| Disbursement | Based on milestone progress and expenditure |
Swedish Funding (Vinnova)
| Entity Type | Max Funding Rate |
|---|---|
| Large Companies | 40% |
| SMEs | 50% |
| Startups | 70% |
| R&D Institutes | 100% |
| Public Sector/Non-Economic Bodies | 80% |
| Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility Check | Initial screening by national agencies |
| Technical Review | Scientific, financial, and market viability assessment |
| Interview/Site Visit | Optional, depending on the agency’s discretion |
| Final Ranking | Jointly ranked and approved by both nations |
| Contract Signing | Separate funding agreements with TDB and Vinnova |
Note: Templates are available on the official websites.
To help applicants form partnerships:
This joint call between India and Sweden is a rare opportunity to jointly develop green, AI-enabled, industrial innovation with funding from both governments. It fosters long-term international cooperation while delivering sustainable solutions in critical manufacturing sectors.
Interested applicants can apply through this link.
The deadline for submission of applications is November 14, 2025.
