China to increase youth science research funding by over 50% in 2026

China is set to significantly expand financial support for young researchers in 2026 as part of a broader national strategy to strengthen scientific innovation and long-term research capacity, reports China Daily, a partner of TV BRICS.

According to the National Natural Science Foundation of China, funding for youth-focused basic research projects will increase by more than 50 per cent next year. The initiative is expected to add around 12,000 new projects to the national Youth Science Fund programme.

The move is designed to reinforce support for early-career scientists and create a stronger pipeline of talent in fundamental research fields, which are increasingly viewed as critical to China’s long-term technological development.

The expansion aligns with the country’s 15th Five-Year Plan for 2026–2030, which prioritises greater self-reliance in science and technology and calls for stronger backing for outstanding research teams and young innovators. The strategy also promotes the development of long-cycle funding mechanisms intended to provide researchers with greater stability for advanced scientific work.

According to the source, Chinese authorities have increasingly emphasised the role of foundational science in driving future technological breakthroughs, with policymakers placing greater focus on sustained investment in research, innovation infrastructure and talent development.