Please note that application for this grant is by invitation only. An invitation for the 2025 call was sent to Spark teams (running for one year or longer) as well as Unusual Collaborations that have previously received no more than two UCo grants in total.

The window for applications for 2025 has closed and the ’25 UCo grants have been awarded. This page will be updated in the course of 2025 with the call for 2026.

Unusual Collaborations grants are meant to take an idea or project further by enabling outside-the-box inter- and transdisciplinary research that is societally relevant and may aim to contribute to societal impact. Expressions of intent are invited on unusual research that would not easily get funded through other funding schemes. In addition to research, expressions of intent may also concern setting up a platform, Centre of Excellence, hub, et cetera.

An Unusual Collaborations (UCo) grant provides funding for one year with the idea that the project will extend beyond the funding period. This may be possible by applying again for CUCo funding up to three years; applicants are also strongly encouraged to consider other pathways for continuation.