One of the strategic objectives of the SNSF is to have more and better communication between science and society. This does not imply merely spreading scientific knowledge among members of the public, rather the aim is to offer insights into scientific working methods and discuss the societal significance of research. Which is why the SNSF encourages researchers from all disciplines to venture forth into the marketplace of Greek antiquity: "Agora" is the SNSF’s new funding scheme for public science communication projects. It has been allocated a budget of one million Swiss francs for the 2011 call for proposals, which must be submitted between mid-May and mid-August 2011.

Creative freedom for projects
Researchers can plan and conduct projects in collaboration with the public relations offices of universities or with museums, journalists and artists. "Agora" does not set any limits on the form and content of projects: whether exhibitions, books, films, discussions or art/multimedia projects, anything is conceivable as long as it brings science to life. This does not include projects comprising marketing campaigns or institutional communication and media relations. Projects must refer to research of high quality and provide an impetus for true dialogue with the public, in which the researchers are expected to play an active role. As far as possible, the project should be recyclable, generate sustainable interest and form part of a wider regional, national or international framework.

Projects linked to scientific work under a National Research Programme (NRP) or a National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) cannot be funded as separate communication budgets have been allocated for such research.