Fraunhofer Research Awards 2025

The 2025 Fraunhofer annual assembly was held in Darmstadt under the motto “Fraunhofer − Transfer for Our Future. Research | Develop | Design.”

On the evening of June 4, the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft recognized excellent projects by its researchers. Three Joseph-von-Fraunhofer Prizes were presented, along with the Innovations for a Better Future award from the Fraunhofer-Zukunftsstiftung (Fraunhofer Future Foundation).

Since 1978, the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft has awarded the annual Joseph von Fraunhofer Prize to its employees for outstanding scientific achievements in developing solutions for application-related problems.

The criteria for being awarded the research prize include the innovative nature of the scientific methodological approach, the advancement of knowledge, and the transfer of the research findings into practical applications.

This year, three Joseph von Fraunhofer Prizes will be awarded, each worth 50,000 euros. The winners will also receive a silver pin with the profile of Joseph von Fraunhofer.

The Fraunhofer-Zukunftsstiftung (Fraunhofer Future Foundation) supports technological research projects that aim to overcome global challenges. The foundation believes that research, innovation and bold pioneering work contribute to positive changes in our society. It therefore supports Fraunhofer researchers in developing products, services and business models that enhance people's quality of life and that have a focus beyond purely economic benefits. The practical approach of the foundation's projects ensures a swift translation of innovations into real-world applications.

In 2025, the foundation is presenting its Innovations for a Better Future award for the first time. This award recognizes the achievements of a Fraunhofer team that has succeeded in translating a technological solution into practice, thereby making a special contribution to sustainable development in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The prize, which is endowed with 50,000 euros, is made possible thanks to generous support from private donors. This earmarked funding supports the further development of the project.