Program Schedule: 2026–2027 Edition

The upcoming Prototype Fund edition focuses on the overarching theme Responsible and Sustainable AI, Tech & Digitalization. Interdisciplinary teams will be developing and testing solutions with real-world relevance in five different challenge areas that all pertain to the overarching theme. This is to guarantee that we have concrete points of departure for the technical prototyping and solution-building.

The program begins with a preparation phase in spring and summer 2026, during which challenges are defined together with partners and the call for applications is prepared and launched.

Application Phase: July – September 2026

The open call launches in mid-July 2026. We will very likely host, during  the application phase, Info Events about the new round online. We are also present at events and high level fora in Switzerland and internationally in which you can approach us and refine ideas, receive feedback, and connect with us and our partners.

Applications are reviewed by the Prototype Fund team and evaluated by a qualified jury. Shortlisted teams are invited to pitch their ideas, with final project selection taking place in late September 2026.

Prototyping and Building Phase: October 2026 – February 2027

The prototyping phase starts in mid-October 2026 and runs for approximately 4 months.

The final prototyping pitch is scheduled for 11 February 2027.

Selected teams develop their prototypes in line with support through

• an implementation journey that assesses responsibility and sustainability components and is co-developed in the cohort kick-off
• expert input (technical, policy, and domain-specific)
• structured check-ins and peer exchange
• program partner inputs

The program includes key touchpoints such as:

• a kick-off workshop
• regular check-ins and peer learning formats
• a mid-term milestone / co-creation moment
• the final pitch

In parallel, the program generates ongoing insights and learnings, which feed into broader discussions on responsible and sustainable AI.

Synthesis Phase: in parallel to prototyping

Throughout the prototyping phase and shortly beyond, project outcomes are:

• documented for broader use (together with the prototyping teams)
• evaluated and contextualized
• translated into insights for technology building
• abstracted for greater tech governance and policy recommendations

Dissemination: February – Summer 2027

At the end of the program, teams present their work at a Final Pitch Day on February 11, 2027.

Outputs include:

• technological prototypes
• use case descriptions
• reports and documentation at various governance levels
• policy-relevant insights

Results are shared with relevant stakeholders and contribute to national and international discussions, including positioning towards events such as the AI Summit Geneva 2027.

Continuous Development

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

Your input during and beyond the program is an essential part of this process.

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