Critical Pathways Fellowship 2026: Sustainability Changemakers Wanted at Utrecht University
Are you passionate about sustainability and ready to challenge the systems behind environmental crises? The Critical Pathways Fellowship 2026 at Utrecht University offers a chance for changemakers from all walks of life to dive deep into these issues. This program focuses on sustainability and the circular economy, bringing together diverse thinkers to uncover hidden truths and build better futures.
About the Fellowship
The Critical Pathways Fellowship 2026 stands out as a collaborative space for people who want to rethink how society handles production, consumption, and organization. It looks at the links between social, cultural, and ecological values. Global inequalities and power dynamics play a big role in how resources are used and how we move to a circular economy.
This program skips strict academic rules. You do not need a PhD or university ties to join. All it asks for is curiosity, creativity, and a drive to question common stories and dream up new paths forward.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship welcomes a broad group of people whose work shakes things up and questions the norm. You might fit if you are:
- An artist, filmmaker, or writer
- An activist, organizer, or community leader
- A journalist, legal expert, or policy advocate
- A conservationist, sustainability worker, or entrepreneur
- An academic from any field
If your efforts uncover hidden facts, boost ignored views, or suggest fresh ways to live sustainably and fairly, this program wants to hear from you.
What Fellows Will Do
Fellows follow a flexible, self-guided schedule with room to explore and connect. Key parts include investigating big questions, sharing work in creative ways, and forming ties with others.
Explore Critical Questions
You can dig into topics that hit close to home, especially those showing the unseen effects of today’s systems. Think about untold stories that could change sustainable futures, communities hit hard by global setups, or power structures that keep inequality and harm going.
Share Your Work Creatively
Present your ideas in ways that match your style. Options range from workshops and performances to film screenings, public talks, and mixed formats. The aim is to start conversations, spark thoughts, and encourage teamwork.
Build Meaningful Connections
You will meet researchers, practitioners, and outside partners. The program helps with introductions, but you take the lead in making links that boost your work and the wider group.
2026 Theme: Making Visible the Invisible
This year centers on revealing forces that shape our world but stay out of sight. That covers hidden setups, unseen work, and built-in inequalities. Fellows should look at the costs of modern life, like digital tech, fast fashion, and pulling resources from the earth.
Pay attention to communities and ecosystems that carry the weight of global chains. Spot who gains from current systems and how they keep them running. Move past pointing out problems to test new ideas for regenerative, fair options that replace taking-too-much models.
Fellowship Details
The program takes place in Utrecht, Netherlands, from October to November 2026. Dates flex a bit, and it lasts 4 to 6 weeks.
It covers up to €10,000 for travel, housing, daily costs, and visas. You also get office space, meeting rooms, library access, and tech tools. Fellows join fully into the Critical Pathways and circular economy groups, tapping into a lively network.
How to Apply
Start by filling out the official application form, a .docx file. Add your CV. Send both to Tom Gerritsen at [email protected].
The deadline is 27 April 2026.
Selection Process
A panel from both partner groups reviews entries. They check fit with themes, fresh views, and potential to add real value. You will hear back within six weeks of the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply to the Critical Pathways Fellowship 2026?
Anyone passionate about sustainability, such as artists, activists, journalists, or entrepreneurs who challenge norms and promote fair change.
What is the 2026 theme of the fellowship?
It focuses on ‘Making Visible the Invisible,’ revealing hidden forces like inequalities and costs in modern systems to build better alternatives.
What activities will fellows do?
Fellows investigate key questions, share work through workshops or talks, and form connections with researchers and partners.
What support does the program provide?
It offers up to €10,000 for travel, housing, and costs, plus office space, library access, and a network in Utrecht from October to November 2026.