In 2025, DKTK embarks on a new streamlined funding scheme within the competitive DKTK Joint Funding Program, with the aim to further accelerate the translation and transfer of scientific discoveries in the areas of prevention, early detection, diagnosis and therapy into tangible outputs for patients. DKTK seeks to support collaborative research projects that are driven by strong preliminary results and established proof-of concept. The two program pillars focus on trial-enabling and transfer-enabling activities to ensure successful translation of preclinical research results into medical application. 

In previous years, the DKTK Joint Funding Program supported collaborative research projects with a translational focus through its INNOVATION funding line. Early clinical trials / Investigator Initiated Trails (IITs) were also supported until 2022. Through its second funding line, UPGRADE, the DKTK supports (reverse) translational research projects that build on or are associated with clinical trials, with the aim to find answers to new scientific questions through experimental research and to maximize the knowledge gained from clinical trials.

Joint Funding proposals are evaluated in a multi-step selection process, and projects of outstanding high scientific quality and innovation potential are selected for funding. All Joint Funding projects involve several DKTK partner sites, and thereby facilitate networking and the best possible use of complementary expertise within the consortium. External partners can participate to support the projects with additional research contributions.

Moreover, the program provides an opportunity to address current topics of high scientific and medical importance through a multicenter approach by providing targeted funding for Strategic Initiatives of the DKTK Steering Committee.

Here you can find an overview of all the Joint Funding projects.