The KIN intends to issue this call for expressions of interest and invites knowledge institutions (individually or as regional partnerships) to express their interest in becoming a pilot location for the joint development of a KIN Hub and capacity building for transition-oriented work. A KIN Hub is a regionally based organisation that works in a transition-oriented and transdisciplinary manner on climate challenges, connecting knowledge, policy and practice.
Background
We intend to seek out three to four organisations that want to work with us to further develop, test and implement the KIN Hub concept. This also includes jointly setting up a training programme for transition-oriented working and contributing to a long-term strategy and governance structure. Between €110,000 and €150,000 including VAT is available per pilot, depending on the number of interested parties. At least €10,000 of the allocated amount must be reserved for hiring experts to set up an overarching governance and training programme.
Submission and deadline
Deadline for expressing interest by submitting a proposal: 1 December 2025, 14:00 CET, by email to Stephanie Holst (Strategy Lead Dutch Initiatives): s.holst@nwo.nl
What are we asking?
We invite knowledge institutions (individually or as a consortium) to express their interest by 1 December 2025, 14:00 CET, by submitting a proposal in which they:
· Explain why their organisation(s) is/are suitable to function as a KIN Hub;
· Describe how they intend to further develop and implement the concept of KIN Hubs together with KIN;
· Describe how they intend to contribute to setting up a training programme aimed at embedding transition thinking broadly within the organisation and developing a governance structure and long-term strategy;
· Indicate the extent to which the institution will contribute its own resources to the development and implementation of the KIN Hub and any substantive programmes (in the long term);
· Share their vision of the role of their organisation in long-term regional climate transitions.
Preconditions
(for more details, see the full draft assignment description):
· Only knowledge institutions (universities, universities of applied sciences or other knowledge institutions recognised by NWO) may submit applications;
· Make at least 0.4 FTE available for development and implementation within the pilot year;
· Commitment to KIN values via the KIN Pact and alignment with KIN themes;
· Regional anchoring and network;
· Mission-driven and transdisciplinary work on regional climate issues;
· Available location for collaboration and community building;
· Demonstrable willingness to contribute and long-term commitment.
Budget and payment
Between €110,000 and €150,000 is available for each selected pilot.
Selection criteria
Proposals will be assessed on the basis of:
· 25%: Alignment with the assignment and conditions for KIN Hubs.
· 25%: Potential to play a regional role in climate transitions.
· 25%: Degree of own contribution and long-term commitment of the institution;
· 25% Degree to which the proposal implements inclusive transition practices, sustainability and justice.
Would you like to know more about the conditions and the concept?
View the KIN Hub concept document here {link to assignment document}. If you have any questions, please feel free to send an email to Stepahinie Holst (Strategy Lead Dutch Initiatives) s.holst@nwo.nl.