Unearthodox Exploration Co-Lab 2027 for Nature & Social Impact Innovators

Unearthodox’s Exploration Co-Lab 2027 is an alternative incubator for systems-changing innovators tackling humanity’s relationship with nature. Over 10 months, it offers funding, mentorship, and a global network to support visionary work that challenges dominant systems like commodification, anthropocentrism, or coloniality. The programme prioritizes initiatives addressing root causes of nature-society challenges, such as climate change or biodiversity loss, and fosters radical, relational, and inclusive approaches to systemic transformation. Applications are open until 16 November 2026, with selections announced by February 2027.

What it offers

• CHF 10,000 grant to advance your initiative.
• 10-month incubation (March 2027–December 2027) with:
  • Peer learning and customised support (e.g., coaching, systems mapping, futures thinking).
  • Visibility via Unearthodox’s channels to boost discoverability and funding opportunities.
  • A global network of changemakers for collaboration and mutual support.
  • Non-financial support (estimated CHF 60,000 in value), including strategic guidance and regenerative success frameworks.

Who can apply

This call is for early-stage initiatives (not yet fully developed) at the intersection of environmental and societal change, working on nature-society challenges. Applicants should:

• Be past the idea stage (e.g., testing, proving, or deepening work with some groundwork).
• Challenge status quo systems (e.g., anthropocentrism, coloniality) and prioritise collective learning over individual advantage.
• Embrace diverse voices, especially from historically excluded communities and global majority backgrounds.
• Be open to long-term commitment and relational, slow change.

What you'll do

You will engage in systems-thinking workshops, peer collaboration, and tailored mentorship to refine your initiative’s approach. The cohort will explore how to shift worldviews, deepen relationships with the more-than-human world, and design regenerative success metrics. Activities are English-only, with synchronous calls in UTC−6 to UTC+6 time zones.

How to apply

1. Review the full application form and eligibility criteria.
2. Submit your proposal by 16 November 2026 (11:59 PM GMT+1).
3. Participate in shortlisting (17–11 December 2026) and interviews (14–18 December 2026).
4. Be selected by 5–4 February 2027 and onboarded by 28 February 2027.

Good to know

• Diversity is prioritised, with at least one Swiss-based initiative selected annually.
• All activities are in English; no prior language proficiency is required.
• The programme is funded by Unearthodox and partners, with no direct applicant costs.
• For questions, email colab@unearthodox.org or explore the supporting report.