SENSE Foundation Brussels Grant

  • Start Date:

  • Deadline:

  • Agency:
    SENSE Foundation Brussels

The Office of Grants and Research (OGR), Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), invites eligible organisations and research partners to apply for project funding offered by the SENSE Foundation Brussels.

The foundation supports projects and initiatives that advance scientific research, environmental protection, sustainable development, and initiatives that contribute to improving and protecting human health. Particular emphasis is placed on projects related to genetics and nutrition, as well as initiatives that promote inclusive development and equal opportunities.

Programme Focus
The funding programme supports projects and non-profit initiatives in Belgium and internationally that align with the Foundation’s core objectives. These include supporting scientific research, environmental protection, sustainable development, and health-related projects, particularly those addressing genetics and nutrition.

The foundation also provides support for students pursuing studies or research in genetics, nutrition, environmental protection, sustainable development, and selected arts and culture fields through merit- and need-based scholarships. In addition, the foundation may offer occasional assistance to charitable organisations supporting individuals facing specific or temporary hardship.

Inclusion, equality, and diversity are key values of the foundation. Projects that are led by, or that benefit, women and minority groups are given particular consideration, and scholarships often prioritise women in STEM fields.

Funding and Project Duration
Grants from the foundation typically represent up to 25% of the total annual cost of a project and may not exceed €25,000. A maximum of 10% of the grant amount may be used for overhead costs.

Projects supported under this scheme are generally expected to run for 9–12 months, with activities implemented between summer 2026 and summer 2027. The supported period may also form part of a larger multi-year initiative.

Funding is usually provided as a one-off contribution, although exceptions may apply for universities administering student support grants.

Eligibility Criteria
Organisations applying for funding must be legally registered non-profit entities with at least two years of operational history and a documented record of activities for a minimum of 24 months. Organisations registered after 1 January 2024 are not eligible.

Applicants must clearly demonstrate that the proposed project aligns with the objectives of the foundation, addresses a clearly defined need, and will generate measurable positive impact. Only one application per organisation per calendar year is permitted.

Exclusion Criteria
Applications will not be considered from organisations whose overhead costs exceed 20% of their total funds received. The foundation will also not support projects that are not aligned with its objectives, incomplete applications, projects previously rejected, or initiatives linked to political or religious organisations.

Requests for commercial sponsorships, sports or cultural event sponsorships, or fundraising activities for other charitable causes are also excluded from funding.

Evaluation Criteria
Applications will be assessed based on their alignment with the foundation’s objectives, the potential for sustainable and lasting impact, and the clarity and feasibility of the proposed methodology.

Projects that address two or more of the foundation’s objectives and demonstrate strong alignment with its values of inclusion, equality, and diversity will receive particular attention. The foundation also considers whether its contribution will act as a catalyst for additional funding or broader organisational development.

Application Deadlines
Two application rounds are available in 2026:

  • 30 April 2026 (5:00 PM CEST) – Decisions communicated during the summer

  • 30 September 2026 (5:00 PM CEST) – Decisions communicated by the end of December

Organisations may submit only one application per calendar year.

Selection Process
Applications are first reviewed by the foundation’s internal team to ensure they meet eligibility requirements and align with programme priorities. Applicants may be contacted by email for additional information during this stage.

Eligible proposals are then evaluated by the Steering Committee of the SENSE Foundation Brussels, which selects projects based on their expected impact, alignment with the foundation’s objectives, and overall feasibility.

Successful applicants will receive a grant agreement for signature, after which funds are typically transferred within 30 days.

Reporting Requirements
Funded projects will be required to submit an impact report in English. The foundation will provide access to an online reporting form in October or November 2027, allowing beneficiaries to document how the funds were used and the outcomes achieved.

For more info: Submit Your Project | SENSE Foundation


Interested organisations and researchers at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology are encouraged to consult the official guidance documents and contact the Office of Grants and Research (OGR) for institutional support before preparing their applications.