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Excellence Strategy

Excellence Strategy — Clusters of Excellence Round 2 (decision, funding from)

Funds seven-year cross-disciplinary research clusters at German universities to strengthen international competitiveness and talent development.

The Clusters of Excellence funding line is the project-based pillar of Germany's Excellence Strategy, a joint Federal Government and Länder programme launched in 2019 to strengthen the international competitiveness of German universities. Clusters receive seven-year project funding to support internationally competitive, cross-disciplinary research fields addressed by individual universities or un

Open to projects across all academic disciplines. Cross-disciplinary Clusters of Excellence at German universities or university networks, with cooperation with non-university research partners encouraged.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Triennial
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.84 months
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.25%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.€539M

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Last verified: 24 Jul 2026Source: www.bmbf.de