Ministry of Science and Technology of the People's Republic of China logo
National Key R&D Programs (国家重点研发计划)

National Key R&D Programs

Offers Chinese organizations support through National Key programs for mission oriented technology projects moving toward practical use.

China's National Key R&D Programs (国家重点研发计划, NKP) are the primary competitive merit-based grant mechanism administered by the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) for applied and translational research aligned with national strategic priorities. Established in 2016 by consolidating several predecessor programs including the 863 and 973 Programs, the NKP operates through multiple thematic sub-

Multiple topical Key Special Programs (重点专项) active annually. Live 2026 calls confirmed including Intergovernmental International S&T Cooperation track. Topic scope varies per call; see service.most.gov.cn for current program guides.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Annual
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.

Sign up free to see the funding breakdown

Sign up free to see the industries in scope

Sign up free to see the full eligibility

Sign up free to see how to apply

Sign up free to see what you submit

Sign up free to see the timeline

Sign up free to see where teams trip up

Last verified: 22 Jul 2026Source: service.most.gov.cn