Independent Research Fund Denmark supports AI research through a new funding call in 2025, with a focus on responsible and ethical use of AI. The initiative funds projects based on researchers' own ideas and promotes scientific progress across all fields. It aims to strengthen Denmark's position in AI by encouraging high-quality, independent research.
Name in original language
Danmarks Frie Forskningsfond
Initiative overview
The Independent Research Fund Denmark (IRFD) plays a key role in supporting research excellence by funding investigator-driven projects across all scientific fields. As part of Denmark's broader effort to strengthen its position in artificial intelligence (AI), IRFD will launch a thematic call in 2025 focused specifically on AI research. This initiative follows the political agreement on the national research reserve and will allocate approximately 100 million DKK to support innovative, independent research projects. A central focus will be on ensuring the responsible and ethical development and use of AI.This initiative addresses the growing need for deeper scientific understanding of AI technologies and their impact on society. While AI offers many opportunities for economic growth and public service improvement, it also raises complex ethical, legal, and societal questions. The funding call aims to enable Danish researchers to explore these challenges while contributing to the global body of knowledge in AI. Researchers from universities, research institutions, and potentially interdisciplinary fields are expected to benefit from this funding opportunity.The primary objectives of the initiative are to support high-quality, bottom-up research in AI, promote responsible use of the technology, and build national capacity in this strategically important area. The initiative also aims to foster long-term knowledge generation that can inform policy, innovation, and education. By encouraging curiosity-driven and independent research, IRFD ensures that Denmark remains at the forefront of critical AI developments, not only technologically but also ethically and socially.Looking ahead, the AI-focused call may serve as a model for future thematic priorities, particularly in fields where technology intersects with society. Depending on the outcomes and interest generated by the 2025 call, IRFD may consider additional funding rounds or broader interdisciplinary approaches. The initiative reflects IRFD's evolving role in addressing complex global challenges through research, and its ability to adapt funding strategies in line with national and international priorities.
Name of responsible organisation (in English)
Independent Research Fund Denmark
