Apply for innovation funding through Energy Cluster Denmark

You can now apply for innovation funding through Energy Cluster Denmark.

The deadline for submitting project proposals for feasibility studies or proof-of-concept projects is 14 September 2026 at 12:00 noon.

For both project types, the aim is for companies to develop new solution concepts based on the results of the projects.

Companies and knowledge institutions can apply for funding for collaborative projects that fall within Energy Cluster Denmark’s innovation focus areas.

The funding is awarded as part of the Danish Board of Business Development’s support for innovation.

Energy Cluster Denmark reviews all applications received and awards funding based on the criteria below. We reserve the right to reject applications that do not meet the formal requirements or the criteria stated below.

Feasibility studies

It is possible to apply for funding for feasibility studies, which are preliminary investigations aimed at determining whether a new technological concept or idea can be implemented in practice.

A new concept is investigated and refined, an initial feasibility assessment is carried out, and the innovative concept is tested at laboratory level (material, component, software tool).
The project must align with Energy Cluster Denmark’s Innovation Roadmap.
At least one knowledge institution must participate – this is a requirement.
At least two small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) must participate. The SMEs must have a Danish CVR number.
Large companies may participate, but this is not a requirement.
TRL 2–3

Proof of concept (PoC)

It is possible to apply for funding for Proof of Concept (PoC) projects, which are typically the next step after feasibility studies and aim to demonstrate that a technology works in practice under controlled conditions.

A prototype is developed and integrated with supporting subsystems, its robustness is verified in a simulated relevant operating environment, and it is demonstrated under varying operating conditions.
The project must align with Energy Cluster Denmark’s Innovation Roadmap.
Projects should be driven by companies’ own development activities and new concepts.
They may be a continuation of feasibility studies or entirely new project collaborations.
At least two small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) must participate. The SMEs must have a Danish CVR number.
At least one knowledge institution must participate – this is a requirement.
Large companies may participate, but this is not a requirement.
TRL 4–6

Selection Criteria

Budget size and funding rate

The total project budget should be between DKK 0.8 million and DKK 2.5 million for both feasibility studies and PoC projects.
Projects are generally expected to have a duration of approximately 12 months.
Companies can receive 70% funding, including 40% overhead, under the de minimis rules, based on a standard rate of DKK 406 per hour.
Applicants may also apply under the General Block Exemption Regulation (GBER). In this case, companies can receive 60%, 50% or 40% funding, depending on whether they are a small, medium-sized or large company. Overhead is 20%, and the standard rate is DKK 406 per hour.
Universities can receive 100% funding, including 44% overhead. The standard rate is DKK 406 per hour.
GTS institutes are reimbursed at cost price plus the applicable GTS rate and can receive 100% funding.
Knowledge institutions must account for at least 45% of the total project budget in both feasibility studies and PoC projects.

The Process

Basic activities

Energy Cluster Denmark offers the following standard activities throughout your project. Please note that the project partnership must allocate funds in the application for facilitation, enhanced communication and financial controlling if you choose only the standard activities.

Additional services

You can purchase additional support and activities that strengthen your project and help you reach your goals faster.

Templates

To apply for funding under the innovation programme, please use the following templates for your application:

Application

To submit your application, please complete the form below. Remember to attach all required documents.

Guidance and support

If you would like guidance on your project idea or have questions about the application process, please contact Energy Cluster Denmark. All communication must take place by email.

If you would like a more in-depth discussion or guidance, a Teams meeting can be arranged. The meeting will be recorded and transcribed as part of our administrative obligations.

Michael Langlo Nielsen, Project Manager, mln@energycluster.dk