Application for the Unusual Collaborations programme is by invitation only. An invitation for the 2026 call has been extended to Spark teams (running for one year or longer) as well as Unusual Collaborations that previously received no more than two UCo grants in total.
CUCo is currently overhauling its support structure and funding schemes. As part of this process, the former Unusual Collaboration grants will be offered as an Unusual Collaborations programme. The aim of the UCo programme is to create a supportive environment for unusual inter- and transdisciplinary (ITD) collaborations by providing teams with time, space, expert and peer support, and funding. This “container” enables deep learning and experimentation, while team insights feed into a growing collective knowledge base.
Teams that are selected for the UCo programme participate in the pilot of CUCo’s new learning journey. The pilot consists of a series of five collective meetings throughout the year.
Budget
A budget of €600,000 has been made available for the UCo programme in 2026. Proposed budgets may amount to a maximum of €100,000. CUCo encourages applicants to limit the funds they request to the activities that are required to achieve their objectives.
Timeline of the procedure
| 8 September 2025 | Call opens |
| 10 November 2025 | Deadline for expressions of intent |
| 24 November 2025 | Eligibility decision |
| 2 December 2025 | Funding decision, based on lottery |
| 1 January 2026 | Start date for funded projects |
