Major funding decision: CISPA set to grow by around 45 million euros annually

The joint decision by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) and the Saarland state government marks a major milestone in CISPA’s development and sends a strong signal for Germany’s future as a hub for research and innovation. At a time when public funding is becoming increasingly scarce, this permanent increase represents an exceptional commitment to the strategic importance of cybersecurity and trustworthy artificial intelligence, as well as to the scientific excellence required in these fields. At the same time, the decision recognizes CISPA’s successful development in recent years and lays the foundation for addressing the societal and technological challenges of the digital future with even greater impact.

“This decision is an extraordinary recognition of CISPA’s achievements in recent years. We see this significant funding increase not only as an acknowledgment of what has been accomplished so far, but also as a mandate for the future. CISPA is ready to continue fulfilling its responsibility toward science and society and to make an even greater contribution to the digital sovereignty of Germany and Europe. The additional funds will open up extensive opportunities for us to attract more outstanding scientists from around the world, explore innovative fields of research, and further strengthen the transfer of scientific findings to business, policymaking, and society,” says Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. mult. Michael Backes, CEO and Founding Director of CISPA.

A key reason for the decision is CISPA's outstanding scientific development. In last year’s international evaluation, the center was awarded the top rating of “Outstanding” in all 19 assessment categories by an independent international panel of experts. The reviewers thereby confirmed CISPA's leading international position across all categories.