TREND – a new programme to support industrial research

The new programme will focus on industrial research and experimental development, especially on the development of new technologies and materials enhancing the level of automation and robotisation (e.g. nanotechnologies) and on the use of digital technologies such as artificial intelligence or photonics.

TREND, the Ministry of Industry and Trade’s programme, should be implemented by the Technology Agency of the Czech Republic. The first public call to participate in the programme is expected to be announced in May 2019, with planned support from 2020. Other public tenders will be announced in 2020–2023.

Total funds to be allocated within the programme are CZK 15 billion for a period of eight years (2020–2027). Since financing from the state budget is substantial, even Prague entities will have a chance to apply for support, similarly as in the current TRIO programme. 

The expected duration of projects within this programme is a maximum of 48 months. Projects that may be funded from this programme include projects prepared by corporations themselves as well as projects carried out in cooperation with research organisations. The highest permitted aid intensity is determined as a percentage of eligible costs and is calculated for each project, recipient and another participant separately, not to exceed 70 or 80 percent in aggregate for all participants, according to the type of supported activity. The programme may only support projects that justifiably presume that at least one of the main project outputs, such as utility or industrial design, prototype, functional sample, pilot plant, verified technology and patent, will be attained.

More details will be available together with the May public tender announcement.