Turn your bottom-up ideas into reality and make the most of the alliance! The annual seed-funding scheme supports collaborative projects across all disciplines and levels. Up to 10,000 euros are available for academic, research, or staff projects, and up to 5,000 euros for student-led initiatives. 

Funding objectives and scope

Projects must involve participants from at least three member universities and contribute to Circle U.'s mission by promoting innovation in education, research, or student engagement. A total annual budget of 100,000 euros is available, with up to 10,000 euros per academic, research or administration project and up to 5,000 euros per student-led initiative.

Evaluation criteria

Submissions should clearly align with the objectives of the scheme and make a compelling case for their relevance and quality. Depending on the focus, reviewers will consider factors such as educational or societal impact, interdisciplinarity, student involvement, and potential for long-term collaboration within the alliance.

Eligible costs and funding period

Eligible costs include temporary staff, preliminary research, awareness-raising materials, and travel or subsistence for activities not covered by regular Erasmus+ grants for teaching and research.

Application timeline

The application period runs from 22 June to 23 October 2026, with the funding period covering the full following calendar year. All applicants receive a score and brief feedback following evaluation. For more information, read the full call, join an info session or watch a recording