The Lead Agency process is aimed at researchers in Switzerland who wish to conduct a cross-border research project.The Lead Agency process allows researchers in Switzerland and a partner country to submit a joint research proposal to either of the two national funding organisations. Project funding is the SNSF scheme that supports Lead Agency applications. SNSF rules apply to the subprojects in Switzerland. The participation requirements of the partner organisation apply to the subproject abroad. A Lead Agency application can be submitted provided there are no thematic overlaps with project funding grants that are already under way.