Do you have an idea or challenge in cybersecurity that you want to explore?
Now is the time to pitch it and get the opportunity to collaborate with top researchers to explore solutions. This is an exploratory call to discover possible innovative cyber solutions with potential for growth, societal value, and future external funding.
The fund is open for applications from 2 February to 28 February 2026.
Please use the application form and budget template below and send them to Marie-Louise Wagner at marielouise.wagner@direc.dk
Please note: The files may be saved directly to your Downloads folder.
Many SMEs face real security issues but lack:
Meanwhile, research environments need practice-oriented cases and real-world partners.
This call bridges these needs and may lead to further funding through foundations, EU programmes, or future NGC calls.
Small and medium entreprises are invited to submit:
Larger companies may join a consortium as long as an SME is an active partner.
All types of cybersecurity challenges or idea proposals are welcome — no specific theme required.
Each submission should briefly describe:
Submissions are made through a simple, standardised form
Projects will be evaluated through a review process in which each application is assessed by:
A representative from the Secretariat/NGC
An independent subject-matter expert who evaluates the project’s research quality
An independent domain expert who evaluates the project’s expected impact and practical effect
The call finances up to DKK 400,000 per project for research into the specific cybersecurity challenge.
Funding is provided to the university or GTS institute.
The call supports proposals that can help ensure the security of Denmark and its allies and partners. Concrete examples of cybersecurity challenges may include — but are not limited to — the following:
SMEs with production environments often rely on older equipment and have inadequate network segmentation. A research project could help by mapping, vulnerabilities, developing simple monitoring approaches, or creating an easy-to-use “OT risk overview” to reduce the risk of operational downtime.
Many companies struggle with the unintentional exposure of personal and customer data. A research project could support them by improving data classification, developing simple data loss prevention (DLP) mechanisms, or developing anonymisation techniques that help mitigate GDPR-related risks.
Phishing, CEO fraud, and AI-generated messages are becoming increasingly difficult to detect. A research project could contribute by analysing attack patterns and developing targeted detection methods or training programmes that improve an organisation’s day-to-day resilience.
If you have further questions, feel free to contact us.
Chief Technology Officer
National Defence Technology Centre
A new and ambitious partnership between Digital Research Centre Denmark, the National Defence Technology Center, Security Tech Space, and the Danish Industry Foundation aims to bring research-driven cybersecurity and innovation closer to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Denmark.
Launched as part of the Danish Industry Foundation’s cybersecurity initiative, the project is backed by nearly DKK 12 million in funding to support the development of cutting-edge cybersecurity products. Additionally, both Digital Research Centre Denmark and the National Defence Technology Center are contributing DKK 3 million each.
Read more about the project: Next Generation Cyber Security
