Applications are now open for the “Making Visible the Invisible” Fellowship Programme 2026, hosted by Utrecht University in collaboration with the Towards a Circular Economy and Society initiative. This interdisciplinary fellowship invites individuals from across the world to explore hidden forces shaping modern societies and propose solutions for a more sustainable and equitable future.
About the Fellowship
This short-term, immersive fellowship encourages participants to investigate overlooked issues within global systems such as production, consumption, and resource use. The programme focuses on exposing hidden environmental costs, structural inequalities, and power dynamics that often remain invisible in mainstream narratives.
Rather than only analysing problems, fellows are encouraged to develop innovative and forward-looking ideas that contribute to regenerative and inclusive societal change.
Fellowship Theme for 2026
“Making Visible the Invisible”
The 2026 edition will explore themes such as:
- Hidden environmental and social impacts of everyday consumption
- Power dynamics within global supply chains
- Unequal distribution of risks, benefits, and resources
- Pathways for transitioning from extractive to regenerative economic systems
Participants will examine how these invisible structures shape daily life and policy decisions, and propose ways to make them more transparent and accountable.
What Fellows Will Do
Selected fellows will:
- Investigate social, environmental, and economic systems that operate behind the scenes
- Analyse who benefits from current systems and who is marginalised
- Develop creative or research-based outputs such as workshops, films, performances, or public discussions
- Collaborate with academics, practitioners, and external partners
- Present work that sparks public dialogue and critical reflection on sustainability
Fellowship Details
- Host Institution: Utrecht University
- Programme Theme: Making Visible the Invisible
- Location: Utrecht, Netherlands
- Duration: 4–6 weeks (October–November 2026)
- Funding: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: 27 April 2026
Applicants must submit a project proposal along with supporting documents. Successful candidates will be notified a few weeks after the deadline.
Financial Support
The fellowship provides funding of up to €10,000, which covers:
- International travel
- Accommodation in Utrecht
- Living expenses during the programme
Fellows will also receive access to university facilities, collaborative workspaces, and research resources to support their projects.
Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to individuals from all countries and professional backgrounds, including:
- Artists, writers, and filmmakers
- Researchers and academics
- Journalists and policy professionals
- Activists and community organisers
- Sustainability practitioners and entrepreneurs
A formal academic qualification is not required. Selection is based on originality, critical thinking, and the relevance of the proposed project.
Why This Fellowship Matters
The “Making Visible the Invisible” Fellowship stands out for its strong interdisciplinary and creative approach, bringing together voices from academia, civil society, and the arts to challenge dominant narratives around sustainability and social justice. It provides a rare opportunity to turn critical ideas into public-facing projects within a leading European research environment.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their proposal and required documents through the official Utrecht University fellowship page before 27 April 2026.
Apply for the Making Visible the Invisible Fellowship 2026
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