Startup Ciencia 2026: Science-Based Startup Funding in Chile

Program Overview

Startup Ciencia 2026 is Chile's flagship grant program for science-based and deep technology startups. Administered by ANID (Agencia Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo), the program provides substantial funding of up to 134,550,000 Chilean pesos (approximately $140,000 USD) per project for companies commercializing scientific research and advanced technology innovations.

The program bridges the gap between academic research and commercial application, targeting startups that leverage scientific breakthroughs in fields such as biotechnology, advanced materials, clean energy, artificial intelligence, and other deep tech domains. Startup Ciencia represents Chile's commitment to building a knowledge-based economy driven by scientific innovation.

Funding Structure

Grant Amount: Up to 134,550,000 Chilean pesos per approved project (approximately $140,000 USD at 2026 exchange rates). This represents one of the largest science-focused startup grants in Latin America.

Grant Coverage: Funds can be used for product development, technology validation, prototype creation, intellectual property protection, market research, and commercialization activities. The program supports both basic R&D and go-to-market expenses.

Co-funding Requirement: While ANID provides substantial grant capital, selected startups typically need to demonstrate additional funding sources or in-kind contributions to show commitment and sustainability.

Target Technologies

Startup Ciencia 2026 prioritizes science-intensive innovations across multiple sectors:

Biotechnology and Life Sciences: Novel therapeutics, medical devices, diagnostics, agricultural biotech, and bioprocessing innovations based on scientific research.

Advanced Materials: Nanomaterials, smart materials, sustainable materials, and materials science innovations with commercial applications.

Clean Energy and Climate Tech: Renewable energy technologies, energy storage solutions, carbon capture, and climate change mitigation innovations.

Information and Communication Technologies: AI/ML applications, quantum computing, cybersecurity innovations, and advanced computing technologies.

Space Technology and Astronomy: Given Chile's world-class astronomical infrastructure, projects leveraging space science and technology receive strong consideration.

Eligibility Requirements

Science-Based Innovation: Projects must be founded on scientific research, demonstrating clear technological advancement beyond existing solutions.

Chilean Entity: Must be legally incorporated in Chile as a startup or early-stage company. Foreign companies can qualify if they establish a Chilean subsidiary.

Research Backing: Strong preference for startups with connections to Chilean universities, research institutions, or scientific collaborators. PhD founders or scientific co-founders strengthen applications.

Commercialization Potential: Must demonstrate clear path to market with identified customer segments, revenue model, and scalability strategy.

Team Capability: Founding team should combine scientific expertise with business acumen. Technical leadership with proven research credentials is essential.

Application Process

1. Call for Applications: ANID announces Startup Ciencia calls annually, typically in the first quarter. Applications are accepted during specific submission windows.

2. Proposal Submission: Submit detailed proposal through ANID's online platform, including technical description, scientific foundation, commercialization plan, budget breakdown, and team credentials.

3. Expert Review: Proposals undergo rigorous evaluation by scientific and business experts assessing technological merit, innovation level, market potential, and team capability.

4. Selection and Funding: Top-ranked proposals receive funding commitments. ANID typically selects 15-25 projects per cycle depending on available budget and proposal quality.

5. Program Execution: Selected startups receive grant disbursements in tranches tied to milestone achievement, with ongoing reporting and progress monitoring.

Program Duration and Milestones

Startup Ciencia grants typically span 18-24 months from award to completion. Funded projects must achieve defined technical and commercial milestones, including technology validation, prototype development, IP protection, and market entry preparation.

ANID provides mentorship and ecosystem connections throughout the program, helping science-based startups navigate the transition from research to commercialization.

Success Tips

Emphasize scientific novelty: Clearly articulate the scientific breakthrough or advancement underlying your innovation. Reference published research, patents, or academic validation.

Demonstrate commercial viability: While scientific merit is crucial, ANID also evaluates market potential. Show customer discovery, market size analysis, and realistic go-to-market strategy.

Build strong research partnerships: Collaborations with Chilean universities or research centers strengthen your application and provide credibility.

Assemble balanced team: Combine deep scientific expertise with entrepreneurial and business development capabilities. PhDs paired with experienced entrepreneurs make compelling cases.

Contact Information

ANID (Agencia Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo)

Website: www.anid.cl

Email: startupciencia@anid.cl

Phone: +56 2 2365 4400

Address: Moneda 1375, Santiago, Chile