Samsung START Program (2026)
Frontier Research Funding for Emerging Technologies
The Samsung Electronics START (Samsung Together for Advanced Research & Technology) Program is an annual open call for proposals designed to identify emerging, frontier technologies that can shape the future of Samsung’s Device eXperience (DX) division.
Through collaborative research with leading universities in North America, Samsung seeks breakthrough innovations that enhance products, services, and user experiences across its portfolio — including mobile technology, visual display, digital appliances, and networking.
Organization: Samsung Research America (START Program)
Support Type: Collaborative research funding
Geographic Focus: North American universities
Funding Amount: Up to $150,000 per project
Project Duration: 1 year (renewable based on Year 1 results)
About the Program
The START Program is an annual Call for Proposals (CFP) aimed at identifying game-changing technologies that could power future Samsung devices and experiences. Projects are designed as collaborative research initiatives between Samsung and university research teams.
Samsung is looking for emerging innovations that can influence its entire product portfolio, particularly within its Device eXperience (DX) division.
2026 Timeline
📅 Open for Submissions:
February 27, 2026 | 9:00am PT
📅 Submission Deadline:
March 20, 2026 | 5:00pm PT
📅 Final Recipients Announced:
June 2026
Funding Details
- Up to $150,000 per project
- Supports project and proof-of-concept (POC) related expenses
- One-year duration, with potential renewal based on Year 1 results
Research Themes (2026 CFP)
Samsung seeks emerging and frontier research across the following domains:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Wireless Communication & Sensing (including 6G)
- Multimedia
- Digital Health
- Robotics
- Medical Technology
- Camera & Imaging
- AR / VR
- Security
- System on Chip (SoC)
- Big Data
- Open Category / New Emerging Tech
Applicants should review the official START website for detailed topic descriptions and specific CFP requirements.
Eligibility
- Faculty researchers at accredited universities in North America
- Projects aligned with Samsung’s strategic technology priorities
- Proposals demonstrating strong innovation potential and relevance to Samsung’s DX product ecosystem
Why This Opportunity Is a Good Fit
This opportunity is ideal for:
- University research labs developing frontier technologies
- Faculty working on applied AI, robotics, wireless, or digital health
- Teams seeking industry collaboration and proof-of-concept funding
- Researchers focused on translational innovation with commercial potential
The START Program is best suited for academic researchers pursuing cutting-edge, device-integrated innovation with strong industry partnership potential.
Application Process
All proposals must be submitted through Samsung’s official START Program portal during the open submission window.
Apply / Learn More:
➡️ https://sra.samsung.com/collaboration/start/
Corporate Grants Guide Notes
Funder: Samsung START Program
Review Type: Competitive, annual CFP
Funding Amount: Up to $150,000
Project Length: 1 year (renewable)
Deadline: March 20, 2026
Best Suited For: North American university research teams advancing frontier technologies
