The FONA³ programme is the central funding measure of the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research to finance research on global change, sustainable economics and socio-ecological issues.

Flagship initiatives covered by the programme:

• Green economy
• Cities of the future 
• Energy transition 

Research lines include how to maintain and improve quality of life and competitiveness, how to use resources intelligently, protecting the climate, biodiversity and seas, and education and research for sustainable development. This research supports the current initiatives and may lay the foundation for future flagships.

Applications are open to companies, universities and non-university research institutions. The funding is provided in a form of a grant; amounts depending on the type of project and applicant.