What to keep in mind when applying for a grant from the Instrumentarium Science Foundation?

Dr. Markku Lämsä has served as Attorney of the Instrumentarium Science Foundation since 2018 and has observed several application rounds. In his career, he has gained extensive experience in evaluating funding applications at Tekes, Business Finland, and the Academy of Finland. Working with these different organisations has given him a deep understanding of what makes a successful grant application.

“There’s one piece of advice that applies to all kinds of grant applications, and it cannot be emphasised enough: carefully read the application guidelines and follow each funder’s specific instructions as closely as possible! Every funding body has its own criteria and preferences that reflect its priorities and goals. This is why the same application rarely works for multiple funders. Instead, tailor each application to meet the specific requirements and expectations of the funder,” he emphasises.

What kinds of projects does the Foundation fund?

The Instrumentarium Science Foundation awards grants for research in medicine as well as in medical devices, equipment, and methods within the technical and natural sciences — and for economic research in these fields. The Foundation especially supports innovative projects that improve healthcare and patient well-being by advancing the development of medical devices and methods.

The Foundation may also fund other research projects related to the natural sciences and technology, as long as they are specifically linked to medicine and the research and development of medical devices. This focus ensures that funded projects bring tangible improvements to healthcare.

Does your application meet the basic criteria?

Lämsä urges applicants to make sure their proposals meet all of the Foundation’s basic criteria before filling out the form.

“This ensures that your application can be processed smoothly and aligns with our funding objectives. A well-prepared application that follows the Foundation’s guidelines will significantly improve your chances of success. Remember to include your CV and publication list,” he points out.

Lämsä notes that the Foundation is committed to supporting major scientific breakthroughs and innovations.

“By applying for a grant from us, you join a group of trailblazers seeking to improve healthcare technologies and methods. Be precise and thorough when preparing your application — that way, you give your excellent research idea the attention and funding it deserves.”

A good title and summary make a big difference

At the Foundation, your application will be reviewed by more than one expert, each selected for their familiarity with your topic and its research area. That’s why it’s essential that your application’s title and summary clearly and concisely convey the key points of your research project. An overly cryptic or wordy title can cause confusion when applications are distributed for review — and a strong research topic might be overlooked. In such cases, the application might end up with a reviewer unfamiliar with the subject and its challenges.

Lämsä sees the rapid development of artificial intelligence as an opportunity to streamline the application process.

“You can use AI in many ways when completing a grant application. Discussing your project with AI can lead to new perspectives or help you clarify your thinking. AI can suggest improvements for structuring the application — such as refining the title and summary, checking grammar, and enhancing sentence phrasing. However, it’s important to remember that AI is a helper, not a substitute for your own thinking and expertise. Make sure you leave enough time to complete the application carefully and gather all the required attachments.”

• Learn more about the open call
• Tips for the grant application (YouTube)