Pakistan Science Foundation has announced a fresh call for research proposals under its programme titled Industrial Solution Grants for Young Scientists, aiming to strengthen collaboration between academia and industry while supporting applied research across key sectors of the economy. Operating under Ministry of Science and Technology, Pakistan Science Foundation is mandated to promote scientific research, innovation and capacity building nationwide, and this latest initiative reflects an effort to channel academic expertise towards practical industrial challenges faced by local enterprises.
According to the details shared by Pakistan Science Foundation, the programme is designed to support demand driven research projects that directly address the needs of industry partners. The grants are open to young researchers, particularly students enrolled in Master of Science, Master of Philosophy and Doctor of Philosophy programmes, who are required to collaborate with a relevant industry partner. Each proposal must include an industry Co Principal Investigator or collaborator to ensure that the research remains grounded in real market requirements and has potential for commercial application. Funding of up to PKR 3 million per project will be available for a maximum duration of two years, enabling research teams to develop prototypes, test solutions and refine processes in close coordination with industry stakeholders.
Officials have stated that proposals featuring partial or matching financial contributions from industry will receive priority consideration, a move aimed at deepening institutional linkages between universities and the private sector. By encouraging industry participation at both technical and financial levels, Pakistan Science Foundation seeks to promote shared ownership of innovation outcomes and accelerate the development of indigenous technologies. The initiative also aligns with broader national objectives of enhancing productivity, reducing reliance on imported solutions and fostering a culture of problem solving within research institutions. Universities and research centres have been requested to circulate the call widely among faculty members, researchers and eligible postgraduate students in order to maximise outreach and participation.
The deadline for submission of proposals is March 31, 2026, and applications must be filed through the Pakistan Science Foundation Research Grant Management System portal. Detailed guidelines, eligibility criteria and application procedures are available on the official website at https://www.psf.gov.pk. Through this targeted funding mechanism, Pakistan Science Foundation aims to support young scientists in translating academic research into practical industrial solutions, while strengthening the country’s research ecosystem and promoting sustainable economic growth driven by local innovation.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
