CIIIC Start

CIIIC Start provides funding of up to €50,000 for one-year exploratory research into the functioning and impact of immersive experiences. The application deadline for the January 2026 funding round has now passed.

What is CIIIC Start?

CIIIC Start supports short-term, exploratory research that addresses fundamental questions about the effectiveness and responsible use of immersive experiences (IX). The programme does not fund the development of new technology. Instead, it focuses on:

• Understanding the key success factors: Which elements of immersive experiences contribute to effective outcomes across different contexts?
• User experiences and impact: How do people experience immersive experiences, what is their demonstrable added value, and how can this be measured reliably?
• Public values and ethics: How can we ensure the responsible use of immersive experiences and prevent unethical applications?
• Practical knowledge for the sector: How can existing methods, approaches, and insights be made broadly applicable across the sector?

The knowledge generated through these projects helps accelerate innovation in the immersive experiences sector and provides valuable input for future funding schemes and projects within the CIIIC programme.

Who is CIIIC Start for?

The programme is intended for consortia in which researchers from universities of applied sciences, research universities, or other research organisations collaborate with at least two additional partners: companies (such as IX creators/developers) and/or public or societal organisations.

What does the programme fund?

Researchers affiliated with research institutions can use CIIIC Start funding to conduct one year of exploratory research into responsible and effective immersive experiences. Projects must be carried out in collaboration with at least two companies and/or societal organisations.

The maximum funding available per project is €50,000. Co-applicants are required to contribute at least 25% of the total project budget.

• Maximum grant per project: €50,000
• Project duration: Up to one year
• Co-funding requirement: Co-applicants must contribute at least 25% of the total project costs

Applications must be submitted by a university of applied sciences, research university, or another research institution. Applicants are advised to prepare their proposal carefully and allow approximately two to four months for the application process.

Applications are assessed by an independent review committee consisting of experts from both academia and professional practice. Proposals are evaluated on a first come, first served basis. Funding is awarded only to applications that receive a satisfactory score on all assessment criteria.

Applications and project implementation

CIIIC Start offers multiple application rounds. The programme is administered by Regieorgaan SIA. The full call text, eligibility criteria, and application procedure for the current round can be found on the SIA website. The editions listed below provide access to both the current and previous application rounds.