SENSE Foundation Brussels has opened applications for its 2026 funding rounds, offering targeted grants to non-profit organizations in Belgium and internationally. The foundation supports high-impact projects that advance scientific research, environmental protection, sustainable development, health, and education.
Guided by its motto, Scientia et Educatio Naturam Sanitatemque Emuniunt (Science and Education Preserve Nature and Health), SENSE Foundation Brussels prioritises initiatives that create measurable, sustainable, and long-term impact.
For organisations seeking European foundation grants in 2026 focused on science, sustainability, and inclusive development, this funding opportunity provides catalytic financial support.
What the Foundation Supports
SENSE Foundation Brussels provides funding across three strategic pillars.
1. Science, Environment and Health
The foundation funds projects that promote:
• Scientific research and innovation
• Environmental protection and climate-conscious initiatives
• Sustainable development solutions
• Health-related initiatives, with particular emphasis on genetics and nutrition
Mental health projects are not currently prioritised under this funding round.
2. Scholarships and Student Support
The foundation provides merit- and need-based financial support to students who:
• Study or conduct research in genetics or nutrition
• Focus on environmental protection or sustainable development
• Work within selected arts and cultural disciplines
A strong emphasis is placed on Inclusion, Equality and Diversity, including active support for Women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). This makes the programme particularly relevant for institutions and students advancing gender equity in science and research.
3. Ad Hoc Charitable Assistance
The foundation may also provide one-off financial support to charitable organisations assisting individuals experiencing temporary or specific hardship.
Funding Conditions
Organisations applying for SENSE Foundation grants must carefully review the financial framework:
• Funding may represent a maximum of 25 percent of the total annual project cost, including staff costs
• The grant may not exceed 25,000 euros
• A maximum of 10 percent of the grant can be allocated to overhead expenses
• Contributions are generally one-off and non-recurring, except in cases of structured university partnerships providing student grants
This structure ensures that funded projects demonstrate diversified funding sources and financial sustainability.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for SENSE Foundation Brussels funding in 2026, organisations must:
• Be legally registered as a non-profit organisation for at least two years
• Have a minimum of 24 months of operational track record
• Be registered before January 1, 2024
• Propose projects lasting between 9 and 12 months
• Implement projects between summer 2026 and summer 2027
• Submit only one application per calendar year
Applications must clearly describe:
• The specific needs being addressed
• The expected measurable impact
• How the grant funds will be used efficiently and effectively
Exclusion Criteria
Applications will not be considered if:
• The organisation’s overhead ratio exceeds 20 percent
• Required impact reports from previous SENSE Foundation grants have not been submitted
• The project does not align with the foundation’s objectives
• The request involves commercial sponsorship, event sponsorship, or fundraising campaigns
• The project is affiliated with political or religious organisations
• The submission is incomplete
• The project was previously submitted and rejected
These guidelines reinforce the foundation’s focus on accountability, strategic alignment, and measurable outcomes.
Evaluation Criteria
Applications are assessed based on:
• Alignment with at least two foundation objectives
• Commitment to inclusion, equality, and diversity
• Demonstrated sustainable and lasting impact
• Clear, realistic, and coherent methodology
• The booster effect of funding, meaning whether the grant will attract additional co-financing or accelerate project growth
Projects that demonstrate strong scalability and multiplier potential are particularly competitive.
Application Deadlines for 2026
There are two funding rounds in 2026:
• April 30, 2026 at 5:00 PM CEST – Decisions communicated during summer 2026
• September 30, 2026 at 5:00 PM CEST – Decisions communicated at the end of December 2026
Organisations may apply only once per calendar year.
Selection Process
Applications undergo a structured two-stage review process.
Initial Review
The foundation team reviews submissions for completeness and alignment with funding priorities. Additional documentation may be requested. Response times vary depending on proximity to the deadline.
Steering Committee Review
Eligible proposals are evaluated by the Steering Committee based on strategic alignment, priority themes, sustainability, and overall impact potential.
Selected beneficiaries are notified following each funding round. Once approved:
• A formal grant agreement is issued for signature
• Funds are transferred within 30 days of signing
The foundation reserves the right to adjust timelines if required.
Reporting Requirements
Funded organisations must submit an impact report in English in October or November 2027 via an online reporting form. The report should outline:
• How the funds were utilised
• The measurable outcomes achieved
• Lessons learned and long-term impact
Final Thoughts
SENSE Foundation Brussels provides strategic European grant funding for non-profits and students advancing science, environmental sustainability, health innovation, and inclusive development. With a maximum grant of 25,000 euros and clear impact criteria, the 2026 funding rounds present a valuable opportunity for organisations seeking catalytic support for projects with lasting societal benefit.
Eligible non-profit organisations are encouraged to prepare early and submit strong, impact-driven proposals before the April or September 2026 deadlines.
