The Science, Technology, and Innovation Funding Authority (STDF) announces the opening of applications for the Fourth Call of the Applied Science and Innovation Excellence Program (ASPIRE Egypt). The program aims to support outstanding applied research projects that contribute to transforming scientific research outputs into practical solutions and innovations with tangible impact on society and industry, thereby supporting the achievement of Egypt Vision 2030 for Sustainable Development.
The program offers two funding tracks:
1. Academic Track
Supports projects led by researchers from Egyptian academic or research institutions, with no requirement for an industrial partner.
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Funding: Up to EGP 3 million per project
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Technology Readiness Level (TRL): Starts at TRL 4 and is expected to reach TRL 5–6 by the end of the project
2. Academic–Industrial Collaboration Track
Supports collaborative projects between universities, research centers, and industrial partners.
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Funding: Up to EGP 8 million from STDF
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Industrial partner contribution: At least 20% of the total project budget (cash contribution)
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Technology Readiness Level (TRL): Starts at TRL 5 and is expected to reach TRL 7 or higher by the end of the project
Submitted projects must fall within one of the following priority areas:
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Renewable energy and energy storage
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Artificial intelligence and digital transformation in services and industry
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Cybersecurity and information and communication technologies (ICT)
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Advanced materials and manufacturing
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Climate change adaptation and sustainability
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Water desalination and management
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Precision agriculture and food security
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Health technologies
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Waste management and the circular economy
Deadline for submission of research proposals: 8 December 2025
Applications must comply with the detailed rules and conditions of the call as published on the Authority’s website:
https://stdf.eg/web/grants/open