Ideation (TNUFA) Challenge – Critical Minerals
Open Date:
26/03/2026Deadline for Submission:
25/06/2026Time zone:
Israel
Summary:
This program is designed to establish new Israeli startups and develop a technological vertical in a field where Israel has significant potential. It focuses on innovative technological solutions along the critical minerals value chain: exploration, mining, production, processing, recycling, and reuse, as well as substitute technologies to minimize dependence on rare minerals. Relevant technology segments include Deep Tech in mining (smart upstream), Processing & Recovery (clean separation technologies, recycling from waste), and Substitution & Efficiency (advanced materials to replace rare minerals and reduce supply risks).
Program Description
This RFP focuses on supporting the proof of concept (PoC) and initial development of innovative technological solutions across the critical minerals value chain. Supported areas include exploration, mining, production, processing, recycling, and reuse, alongside substitute technologies aimed at minimizing dependence on rare minerals.
Financing
- The financing scheme awards a grant of 1,000,000 ILS to the first-place proposal.
- The proposals ranked in places 2 through 5 will each receive a Tnufa grant of 250,000 ILS
Criteria
Primary eligibility
- Requires all applicants to be residents of Israel.
- Additionally, registered companies must be in their early stages and meet specific limitations regarding prior funding and annual revenue.
Evaluation criteria
- Level of technological innovation
- Challenges in realizing the program
- Applicant capabilities
- Project feasibility
- Global business growth potential
- Contribution to the Israeli economy
- Grant’s expected contribution to the venture’s advancement
Application Process
- The submission process is conducted entirely online through the Israel Innovation Authority’s Hebrew portal.
- Applicants are required to submit their project proposals and all relevant documentation prior to the final deadline on June 25th, 2026, at 12:00 PM (Israel Time).