Funds for innovation: AU Connect and AU Connect+ open for new applications
Researchers at Aarhus University can once again apply for AU Connect funding to establish and develop collab-orations with private companies and public organisations. Researchers who have previously received AU Con-nect funding can also apply for AU Connect+ to further develop an existing collaboration.
The application deadline for both programmes is 1 October 2026.
The funding is provided through Denmark's national research reserve innovation funds and is designed to strengthen collaboration between research and society by making it easier for researchers to build partnerships and bring research-based knowledge closer to real-world application. The initiative supports Aarhus University's Strategy 2030, in which research-based innovation and collaboration with external partners are key strategic priorities.
From idea to collaboration
One of the projects that received AU Connect funding earlier this year demonstrates what this support can make possible.
Jacob Sherson, Associate Professor of Management and Director of the Center for Hybrid Intelligence (CHI), is working with a number of companies to develop an open-source system designed to make it easier for Danish and European businesses to use artificial intelligence through close collaboration between humans and AI.
The grant has enabled the team to launch its first pilot projects and establish partnerships with companies to test the technology in practice.
"AU Connect gives us a kind of collaboration laboratory, providing the financial support we need to fully dedicate ourselves to the project," says Jacob Sherson.
Funding for new and existing collaborations
Researchers from all five faculties at Aarhus University are eligible to apply for AU Connect.
The programme supports projects that bring research-based knowledge closer to practical application through collaboration with private companies or public organisations. Funding can be used to establish new partnerships, carry out pilot projects or test research-based solutions in real-world settings.
Researchers who have previously received AU Connect funding and continue to collaborate with the same company may also apply for AU Connect+. The programme enables researchers to build on an established partnership and move projects one step closer to implementation and practical use.
The application deadline for both AU Connect and AU Connect+ is 1 October 2026.
Facts about AU Connect and AU Connect+
- AU Connect supports new collaborations between researchers at Aarhus University and private companies or public organisations.
- AU Connect+ is intended for researchers who have previously received an AU Connect grant and wish to further develop an existing collaboration with the same company.
- The funding is provided through Denmark's national research reserve innovation funds.
- The programmes are designed to strengthen research-based innovation and create new pathways from research to application.
- Application deadline: 1 October 2026.
- Read more about the application criteria and apply here
- Read the interview with Jacob Sherson here