Critical Pathways Fellowship 2026: Apply Now
Are you ready to challenge the hidden forces behind our world’s biggest challenges? The Critical Pathways Fellowship 2026 at Utrecht University offers a chance for creative thinkers to dive into sustainability and circular economy ideas. This program brings together people from all walks of life to question old systems and build new paths forward.
About the Fellowship
The Critical Pathways Fellowship 2026 is a joint effort by the Critical Pathways community and Towards a Circular Economy and Society at Utrecht University. It creates a space for changemakers, artists, and leaders to explore social, cultural, and ecological issues. The focus is on how power structures and inequalities affect resource use and the shift to a circular economy.
This program stands out because it welcomes people without needing a PhD or university ties. It values fresh ideas, bold questions, and a drive to rethink how we live and produce.
Who Can Apply
The fellowship is open to a diverse group of people who push limits and spotlight ignored truths. You might fit if you are:
- An artist, filmmaker, or writer
- An activist, organizer, or community leader
- A journalist, lawyer, or policy advocate
- A conservationist, sustainability expert, or entrepreneur
- An academic from any field
If your work uncovers hidden stories or suggests fairer ways to live sustainably, this could be for you.
What Fellows Will Do
Fellows join a flexible program where they lead their own projects. Key activities include exploring tough questions, sharing work in creative ways, and making connections.
Explore Critical Questions
Fellows dig into topics like untold stories that could change sustainable futures. They look at communities hit hard by global systems and power setups that keep inequality alive. The aim is to reveal unseen impacts of our current ways.
Share Work Creatively
You can show your ideas through workshops, performances, film screenings, public talks, or mixed formats. These events aim to start conversations and teamwork among participants.
Build Connections
Fellows meet researchers, experts, and partners. The program helps with introductions, but you take the lead in forming links that boost your project and the group.
2026 Theme: Making Visible the Invisible
This year’s focus is on spotting forces we often miss, like hidden infrastructures or unfair labor. Fellows examine costs of fast fashion, digital tech, and resource pulls. They also study who gains from these systems and how to create fair alternatives.
Proposals must move past criticism to test new ideas for thinking, acting, and living in regenerative ways.
Fellowship Details
The program takes place in Utrecht, Netherlands, from October to November 2026. Dates are flexible, and it lasts 4 to 6 weeks.
It covers up to €10,000 for travel, housing, daily costs, and visas. Fellows get office space, library access, tech tools, and ties to university networks in critical pathways and circular economy fields.
How to Apply
Follow these steps:
- Fill out the official application form, available as a .docx file.
- Add your CV.
- Email both to Tom Gerritsen at [email protected].
The deadline is April 27, 2026.
Selection Process
A panel from both communities reviews entries. They look for fit with themes, fresh views, and strong potential. You will hear back within six weeks of the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply to the Critical Pathways Fellowship 2026?
Artists, activists, journalists, leaders, and sustainability experts from any background can apply if they challenge systems and seek sustainable paths.
What is the 2026 theme?
The theme is ‘Making Visible the Invisible,’ focusing on hidden infrastructures, inequalities, and costs in fast fashion, tech, and resources.
How do I apply?
Download the form, add your CV, and email both to [email protected] by April 27, 2026.
What does the fellowship cover?
It provides up to €10,000 for travel, housing, and daily costs, plus office space, library access, and university networks.