Apply for funding to support your ED&I initiative
Circle U. invites students, academics and staff to submit proposals for small, high-impact projects that promote equity, diversity and inclusion across the alliance. Selected initiatives receive financial support and guidance to turn ideas into concrete actions.
What kind of projects are eligible?
Initiatives may explore a wide range of themes — from awareness-raising campaigns and events, to building support networks for underrepresented groups, addressing gender inequality and intersectionality, or embedding inclusive perspectives into curricula and teaching. Projects might also aim to improve access to mobility opportunities, foster inclusive leadership and governance, or enhance accessibility in digital learning environments. Other topics are welcome if they align with the aims of the scheme.
Funding and selection process
Each year, up to three proposals are selected. The total budget is €12,000, with a maximum of €4,000 per initiative. Funding can be applied to project-related expenses and the running costs of the networking activities, such as materials, event organization, outreach measures, short-term mobility, costs for services and more.
Timeline and applications
The application period runs from 23 July to 15 September 2026. The funding period begins in November 2026 and covers a maximum duration of 12 months.
Proposals are evaluated based on their relevance to ED&I objectives, the strength of collaboration across institutions, and their potential for lasting impact. For more information, find the full call and application link below.
Key dates
Call opens: 23 July 2026
Call closes: 15 September 2026
Results announced: Mid-October 2026
Funding period begins: November 2026
Info session
The Circle U. Team will host an info session for all interested applicants on 11.09.2026 at 1 pm CET. The info session will be online, and we hope to answer all questions regarding funding eligibility and the application process.
Please register at diversity@circle-u.eu if you wish to attend the info session.
This offer forms part of Circle U.’s ED&I strategy and supports meaningful, bottom-up change across the alliance.
Resources for applicants
Applicants can download the full call and consult Circle U.’s ED&I strategy via the links below.
Download the full call for applications
Download Circle U's Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion strategy
Events
IN-ROOTS – Inclusive Routes and Roots for Doctoral Communities
Intersectionality in Research: what it is and why it matters
