Program Schedule: 2026–2027 Edition

Timeline of the fifth Prototype Fund round: selection in October 2026, prototyping and synthesis from November 2026 to June 2027, closing in Geneva on 18–20 June 2027, final report in summer 2027.

The fifth round of the Prototype Fund is dedicated to Responsible & Sustainable AI, Tech and Digitalization. Up to five teams will be selected and supported over around six months.

Application Phase: July – September 2026 (closed)

The call for applications closed on 6 September 2026. We received 98 applications – thank you to everyone who applied!

Selection: October 2026

The Prototype Fund team checks all applications against the formal criteria; the shortlisted projects are then assessed by our jury.

  • 19 October: pitch calls with the jury
  • 30 October: announcement of the selected teams

Prototyping Phase: November 2026 – June 2027

The prototyping phase starts with a kick-off in November 2026, including an introduction to the responsible AI framework of the Swiss Centre for Responsible AI (SCRAI). From December, the teams build their prototypes over around six months, supported through:

  • monthly check-ins and sparring
  • partner workshops in January and March 2027
  • input from our programme partners

Synthesis: in parallel to prototyping

Throughout the prototyping phase, project outcomes are documented together with the teams, evaluated and translated into insights for technology building and for tech governance and policy.

Closing in Geneva: June 2027

The round concludes on 18–20 June 2027 in Geneva, ahead of the AI Summit, where the teams present their prototypes. A final report brings together the insights of the fifth round in summer 2027.

Continuous Development

The Prototype Fund itself is designed as an experimental programme. We continuously adapt and refine the journey based on ongoing prototyping learnings, experience and feedback.

To stay up to date on the next funding round, subscribe to our newsletter or join our waitlist.