Tailored research and innovation funding instruments to foster collaboration with the MENA region

How is the cooperation with these partners organized on the ground?

Michael Krieger: Cooperation is organized through various approaches. One way is through joint research projects involving collaborative scientific efforts between Swiss and MENA institutions supported by funding mechanisms and targeted calls. We also promote direct engagement with local researchers and innovators through innovation instruments. A third approach is through scientific missions and visits, which help strengthen relationships and align goals. Additionally, close coordination with Swiss embassies in partner countries supports the logistical and diplomatic aspects of the partnerships.

What tools have proven effective in fostering cooperation with the MENA region?

Michael Krieger: Two types of instruments have proven particularly effective in supporting scientific cooperation with the region. The first is our primary funding instrument, the Research Partnership Grants, which offer accessible and flexible funding, enabling the initiation of collaborations in various fields. Since these grants are launched annually, researchers can rely on them when exploring new collaboration opportunities.

The second type is bilateral instruments, such as the one implemented with Morocco in the previous mandate. These are especially valuable for building more extensive ties with a specific country, particularly when they focus on specific topics identified as priorities by both sides.

How does the Leading House MENA collaborate with other Swiss institutes of higher education and other ERI-stakeholders to achieve its goals?

Nawal Kinany: Collaboration is at the heart of the Leading House’s approach and is carried out through various channels. We have regular exchanges with Swiss universities and other funding organizations to align funding with institutional priorities, foster complementary efforts, and position the Leading House MENA as a key knowledge and contact point for scientific collaboration in the region.

What was an impactful or challenging project the Leading House MENA was involved in, and why?

Michael Krieger: A significant milestone was strengthening scientific collaboration with Morocco. In 2022, the Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) and the Leading House signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Moroccan Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research, and Innovation. This marked a significant step in formalizing bilateral cooperation. This agreement enabled the launch of two bilateral calls for projects, providing concrete funding opportunities for researchers from both countries. These initiatives have already fostered new research partnerships in key areas of mutual interest, such as science of education and sustainable water management, reinforcing Switzerland’s role as a regional strategic research partner.

What contribution can the Leading House MENA make through its activities to foster cooperation between Switzerland and other countries?

Nawal Kinany: The Leading House MENA facilitates the establishment of strategic, science-based partnerships between Switzerland and the MENA region. By simplifying cross-border collaboration and supporting initiatives aligned with Swiss and regional priorities, we help lay the groundwork for sustainable, long-term collaborations with mutual benefits - whether through joint research, innovation transfer, or institutional dialogue.