A new funding line for research data management at universities of applied sciences has been launched by BMFTR. : Date:
Professional research data management is becoming increasingly important for science and research, whether for data exchange, ensuring scientific quality or boosting innovation. The Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) is taking the initiative with a new funding line to provide targeted support to universities of applied sciences (UAS) in this area.
The BMFTR has published a new call for proposals to lay the foundations for effective research data management (RDM) at universities of applied sciences. The initiative aims to strengthen the professional handling of research data in line with the FAIR principles (findability, accessibitlity, interperability and reuseability) and improve the quality and reuseability of scientific data.
The funding line is aimed both at higher education institutions wishing to trial research data management (RDM) structures for the first time, and at institutions with already established RDM structures that wish to develop these further in a targeted manner, and integrate them more closely with the National Research Data Infrastructure (NFDI). Accordingly, the funding line compromises two options for research projects: firstly, the analysis and testing tailor-made RDM concepts for higher education institutions; and, secondly, the further development of existing structures, with the aim of establishing closer links with the NFDI.
This new funding line builds on previous FDM initiatives, with the BMFTR aiming to integrate universities of applied sciences more effectively into the national research data landscape in the long term. The focus is on sustainable approaches, developing expertise, and creating transferable solutions for research data management.
Applications for funding can be submitted until 18. September 2026.
Further information on the funding line for research data management at universities of applied sciences can be found on the VDI/VDE Innovation + Technik GmbH website. (only available in German)