Blood Service Research Fund
The Research Fund of the Finnish Red Cross Blood Service awards grants to scientific projects that support the implementation of the Blood Service’s research strategy: research and development of the Blood Service’s current and future products, operations and services. The topics may include, but are not limited to
- blood donors and donation
- blood supply chain
- transfusion medicine
- blood cells
- novel cell therapies, and
- transplantation
Each year, the specific Call topic is announced separately. The funding is aimed at supporting research groups operating outside the Blood Service.
The Call 2026 is now open 16.3.-12.4.2026.
The Blood Service Research Fund was established by the Finnish Red Cross, with grants decided annually by the Board of Directors as part of the Blood Service’s budget process. The maximum amount of funding available each year is determined by the Board of Directors.
Grants are awarded for periods of 1–3 years. While multi‑year funding may be granted in full during the initial application round, continued funding is conditional on the recipient demonstrating sufficient progress in their reporting.
The Evaluation Committee reviews the applications and submits a proposal on the projects to be funded. Decisions on the grants are communicated to applicants during the autumn of the application year. The awarded grants are also published on this website.
Funding applications may cover research expenses, salaries, a personal grant, or researcher visits either to Finland or from Finland abroad. Employees of the Finnish Red Cross, including the Blood Service, are not eligible to apply for personal grants or salaries for their own research projects.