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Dear Colleagues,
We invite you to participate in the first edition of the LIDER UP competition. We would like to introduce the application rules and encourage you to develop your scientific career within the new, expanded support formula of the National Centre for Research and Development (NCBR).
The program aims to enhance the competencies of young researchers in independently managing projects with implementation potential. LIDER UP offers not only project funding but also access to specialized training and mentoring. The competition consists of three phases:
- Phase I – Training & Mentoring: A package of workshops for young scientists and mentoring with experts experienced in business and research commercialization.
- Phase II – Project Implementation: Research project execution. Only Phase I participants who completed the training program are eligible to apply for this stage.
- Phase III – Pre-implementation: An additional stage to bring project results closer to market entry and increase the chances of commercial success.
Projects should focus on applied research and experimental development. The maximum funding for Phase II is PLN 2.5 million, while Phase III can receive an additional 15% of the Phase II amount.
Key Dates:
- Call Opens: February 17, 2026
- Internal University Deadline (MZP): March 10, 2026
- Submission via LSI System: March 17, 2026 (by 4:00 PM)
Applications must be prepared and submitted exclusively in electronic form via the LSI system in Polish. Detailed information can be found on the official NCBR website.
Need Help with Your Application? Join Our Online Consultations!
Do you have a ground-breaking research idea but feel overwhelmed by the formalities? We invite Lodz University of Technology employees to join online consultations for the LIDER UP 1/2026 call.
Don’t leave your success to chance. During the meeting, you will:
- Refine your recruitment form for Phase I.
- Clarify any doubts regarding recruitment rules and criteria.
- Learn about efficient university procedures that will streamline your start.
Join us on March 4, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Contact the competition coordinators directly via MS Teams: Agnieszka Stożek or Katarzyna Sukienniczak-Kucharska.
We encourage all young researchers who want to realistically increase their chances of success to apply!
We provide consultations in Polish.