2026-07-06
Starting in October, Base4NFDI will introduce the Base4NFDI Service Support Track (SST), designed to provide targeted, low-threshold support to promising basic service candidates within the NFDI ecosystem.
Following the April 2026 decision that no new proposals can be submitted under the existing three-phase funding model due to limited funding availability, Base4NFDI is taking a complementary approach. The Service Support Track enables continued progress by making strategic use of remaining Base4NFDI resources to strengthen service development and achieve concrete results.
Why should services apply to the Service Support Track?
The Service Support Track offers a pragmatic and results-oriented support pathway. Participating services benefit from:
- Targeted support from Base4NFDI to advance service maturity and achieve clearly defined outcomes.
- Optional financial support of up to 20,000 euros for activities such as workshops or external expertise (subject to available funds, no staff costs are eligible).
- Access to experienced Base4NFDI staff with expertise in service development and the NFDI landscape.
- Increased visibility within the NFDI community, including opportunities for demo or showcase sessions.
- Endorsement and alignment with Base4NFDI standards and processes.
The scheme is deliberately designed to be low-threshold, with a compact proposal format and a focus on “getting things done” rather than lengthy application procedures.
Who Can Apply
During the initial pilot phase (until July 2027), eligibility is limited to services that have previously submitted a proposal to Base4NFDI but are not currently funded. These services have already undergone review processes in sections, demonstrated community support (consortia survey), and reached a minimum level of maturity, enabling a faster and more efficient support process.
The Service Support Track is aimed at basic service candidates that:
- Already have actively engaged staff who will work with and implement the results.
- Demonstrate a minimum level of service readiness.
- Fulfil the NFDI basic service definition, including confirmed relevance by consortia.
Next Steps
Starting in August 2026, Base4NFDI will offer regular office hours to introduce the Service Support Track and guide interested applicants through the process.
How to apply
Applicants will be invited to submit a short proposal outlining:
- The specific outcomes they aim to achieve with Base4NFDI support.
- The current status of their service in relation to the Base4NFDI Service Readiness Levels. These take a similar approach as the known TRLs but offer a better applicability for less technical services and apply a broader approach to service readiness, taking user engagement, operational models and more into consideration. More information on the Service Readiness Levels will be published soon.
The proposal template and further information on the process will be communicated soon. If you have any questions, please contact the Base4NFDI office (