Schmidt Sciences — Trustworthy AI RFP
Schmidt Sciences — Science of Trustworthy AI RFP
The 2026 Schmidt Sciences Trustworthy AI RFP closed 17 May 2026 (Tier 1 up to $1m, Tier 2 $1m–$5m+). Annual programme — set up watch for 2027 round.
Why it fits RAIDT
"Characterising and measuring AI behaviour" is core to Schmidt Sciences' Trustworthy AI focus. RAIDT's 5-pillar scoring and run-level evidence packs are exactly this kind of measurement methodology. Tier 1 ($1m) is feasible for a focused RAIDT scaling project; Tier 2 ($1m–$5m+) is feasible with consortium.
Key parameters
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Amount | Tier 1 up to $1m; Tier 2 $1m–$5m+ over 1–3 years |
| Funding rate | 100% |
| Match funding | None |
| Eligible applicants | Open globally to researchers, teams, institutions |
| Closing date | Annual; 2026 closed 17 May; 2027 expected ~Feb–May |
2026 decision
Skipped 2026 round — discovered 7 days before deadline, insufficient time for credible Tier 1 proposal at PhD stage. Decision logged in Decisions-Log 2026-05-11.
Action plan for 2027 round
Realistic competitiveness
Highly competitive at Tier 2; Tier 1 more accessible. Schmidt Sciences favours mathematical rigour and measurement framing. RAIDT's design science approach + standards mappings should position well.
Framing for 2027
Avoid framing RAIDT as "compliance" or "governance" — frame as "measurement science for AI behaviour and accountability." Schmidt Sciences is alignment-flavoured, not compliance-flavoured.
Notes
- Annual cadence means missing one round = 12-month delay
- Strong target for 2027 once papers are published and RAIDT has commercial validation
- Consider engaging Schmidt Futures (related entity, broader scope) in parallel