The funding comes from the national research reserve’s innovation grants, which are specifically intended to strengthen the link between research, innovation and societal value creation. The initiative is directly aligned with Aarhus University’s Strategy 2030, where research-based innovation and entrepreneurship constitute one of the university’s core strategic focus areas.

Collaboration Between Researchers and Companies: AU Connect

Through AU Connect, researchers at Aarhus University can explore, establish or further develop collaborations with private or public companies, thereby bringing research closer to practical application.

In previous rounds, AU Connect has supported pilot projects, joint analyses with public-sector partners and early-stage testing of research-based ideas in collaboration with companies. The grants have enabled researchers to test new collaboration models, develop technologies and services in dialogue with end-users, and strengthen the applied dimension of research.

Researchers from all five faculties have previously received funding.

A New Opportunity to Expand Established Partnerships: AU Connect+

As a new addition, researchers can now apply for AU Connect+. This opportunity is targeted at researchers who have previously received AU Connect funding and continue to collaborate with the same company.

While AU Connect often supports the first steps in a collaboration, AU Connect+ is designed as the next gear. The focus is on deepening and further developing established partnerships — for example by moving projects closer to implementation and real-world application.

From Knowledge to Company: AU Launch

In parallel with AU Connect, Aarhus University is also opening a new round of AU Launch, likewise funded by the research reserve’s innovation grants as well as contributions from the Salling Foundations and the BioInnovation Institute.

The programme is aimed at entrepreneurial students and researchers who seek to translate knowledge and research into new companies.

AU Launch is a key instrument in realising the Strategy 2030 ambition to strengthen research-based innovation and entrepreneurship across the university. Over the years, AU Launch has served as a springboard for a wide range of knowledge-based startups and spinouts.

The grants may be used to mature business ideas, explore markets, validate solutions and develop prototypes — particularly in the critical early phase where the idea is strong but resources to take the next decisive steps are often lacking.

Practical Information

Application deadline: 14 April

AU Connect and AU Connect+
For researchers at Aarhus University collaborating with private or public companies, organisations or NGOs.
Read more and apply here

AU Launch
For students and researchers with entrepreneurial ambitions.
Read more and apply here

Please note that AU Launch can be applied for from 1 March.