The Research Council organises various competitions to recognise Estonia’s leading promoters of science and technology, with the aim of giving science-related topics greater visibility and broader societal impact, and of ensuring a strong next generation of Estonian researchers and teachers.
In addition, competitive opportunities are offered to young people to encourage them to approach topics of interest in a scientific manner and to provide insight into the world of research.
Recognition Competitions
- The National Contest of Young Scientists is open to basic school and upper secondary school students. The submission deadline is 20 February. The second round of the competition will take place as part of the Students’ Science Festival.
- The deadline for submitting candidates for the Estonian Science Communication Award is 15 September.
- The National Contest for University Students accepts submissions at the level of professional higher education, Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral studies. The submission deadline is 15 September.
- The National Contest of Young Inventors is open to pre-school children and students of all age groups, including those in vocational secondary education. The submission deadline is 15 October 2026.
Activity Grants
Under the Open Call for Science Popularisation Projects, funding is available to anyone active in, or wishing to initiate, a project in the field of science popularisation. The submission deadline is 22 February.
International Competitions
For more information, see the page “Cooperation”.
