In a new periodic feature, IBO highlights major funding announcements and initiatives that indicate opportunities for instrument and laboratory product makers.

Samsung announced in May the formation of the Samsung Future Technology Promotion Foundation, which will invest KRW 1.5 trillion ($900 million = KRW 1.11 =$1) over 10 years in R&D. The Foundation plans to spend KRW 300 billion ($266 million) this year and invest a total of KRW 750 billion ($675 million) by 2017. The Korean Broadcasting System reported that funding will be divided among three programs: KRW 250 billion ($225 million) for young scientists’ basic research in physics, chemistry, bioscience and mathematics; discovery, development and commercialization of materials technology; and information and communication technology projects. Applications submission will begin in July, with funding allocated in November.

Also targeting basic research is the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation’s Emergent Phenomena in Quantum Systems initiative, which was announced this month. The initiative will funnel over $90 million over five years into basic research of quantum materials. Funding will be used to support an integrated research program that includes experiment, materials synthesis and theory. Specific areas of focus include instrumentation acquisition and development, and high risk projects.

Responding to calls to create world-class universities, in July, the Russian government awarded 15 universities a total of RUB 9 billion ($293 million = RUB 30.68 = $1) in funding. The recipients include the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI (Moscow Institute of Physics Engineers) and St. Petersburg State Polytechnic University.

Also in Eastern Europe, Poland this month received two loans from the European Investment Bank for R&D. A €490 million ($647 million = €0.76 = $1) loan will fund R&D grants for basic or applied research awarded by the country’s National Science Centre, and National Centre for Research and Development. The grants are open to government research institutes, universities and businesses. A €480 million ($633 million) loan will be used for grants for “statutory research tasks” at public universities and research institutes, including support for the Ministry of Science and Higher Education’s investment in infrastructure and research equipment.