CFAs: Sustainable Social Services Project Grants (Sweden)

Forte, a Swedish research council, invites applications for the “Hållbar Socialtjänst 2027” funding opportunity. This initiative aims to enhance sustainable, preventative, and knowledge-based social services through research. Approximately 120 million SEK is allocated for project grants. The application window opens on 21 October 2026 and closes on 2 December 2026. Opportunity at a Glance

- Provider: Forte

- Opportunity Type: Research Funding

- Total Funding Available: Approximately 120 million SEK

- Eligible Applicants: Researchers with a doctoral degree

- Eligible Locations: Sweden

- Deadline: 2 December 2026, 14:00

- Project Start Date: 1 July 2027

- Application Decision: April 2027

About the Opportunity

The “Hållbar Socialtjänst 2027” funding call is part of a ten-year national research program initiated by Forte at the behest of the Swedish government. The goal is to advance a knowledge-based and sustainable social service system that meets the needs of residents and fosters a socially sustainable society. Projects funded under this call should exhibit high scientific quality, addressing needs identified in social service practice or policy, and be rooted in the strategic research agenda of the program. Funding and Benefits

- Project Duration: Up to four years

- Indicative Grant Amount: Approximately 6.5 million SEK per four-year project

- Cost Coverage: Includes indirect costs (overhead)

- Funding Purpose: To support research that develops and disseminates knowledge based on specific research questions within defined projects.

Who Is Eligible?

- Primary Applicant: Must hold a doctoral degree by the closure of the call.

- Application Limit: One application per principal investigator.

- Geographic Focus: Projects must be relevant to social services in Sweden.

Eligible Activities or Priority Areas Applications should align with one or more of the following thematic tracks:

- Knowledge-Based Assessment and Methods: Research to strengthen the scientific foundation for client-based work in social services.

- Preventative and Accessible Social Services: Studies on preventative measures and accessibility at various societal levels.

- Collaboration and Interaction: Research on effective cooperation within and between organizations and systems.

- Long-term Sustainable Social Services: Projects focusing on institutional and structural development of social services.

Additional cross-cutting perspectives include digitalization, equality, and person-centered approaches. Why This Opportunity Matters This funding opportunity is crucial for advancing sustainable social services in Sweden. By supporting research that is closely tied to practical and policy needs, it helps improve service delivery and develop evidence-based practices. This initiative fosters innovation and addresses systemic challenges in social service provision. How to Apply

- Prepare Your Application: Ensure your research proposal aligns with Forte’s research areas and the thematic focus of the call.

- Submit Online: Applications must be submitted through the Forte application portal.

- Include Required Documents: Detailed budget, project description, and proof of doctoral degree.

- Deadline: Submit by 2 December 2026, 14:00.

For full application guidelines, please visit Forte’s official page. Next Steps Eligible applicants are encouraged to review the official guidelines thoroughly and prepare their applications in alignment with the strategic goals of the “Hållbar Socialtjänst 2027” initiative. Visit Forte’s website for detailed instructions and updates.