Students with bold ideas for a sustainable future are encouraged to apply for the KUOS Catalyst Awards 2026. This competition recognizes creative, scalable solutions to environmental, social, and economic challenges from undergraduate and graduate teams.

The awards are open to undergraduate and graduate student groups whose projects are developed during the 2025–2026 academic year, either as part of a course or as an independent student initiative. Projects may be disciplinary or interdisciplinary and must address environmental, social, or economic sustainability challenges.

Koç University is a leading private, non-profit research university in Istanbul, Turkey, known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, innovation, and global engagement. Established in 1993, the university offers high-quality undergraduate and graduate programs across engineering, social sciences, humanities, sciences, business, and medicine.

Application Deadline: April 24, 2026

Brief Description

• University or Organization: Koç University Office of Sustainability (KUOS)
• Department: Office of Sustainability
• Course Level: Undergraduate and Graduate
• Award: 20,000 TL Gift Check
• Access Mode: Online
• Number of Awards: Up to 2 main awards (Undergraduate & Graduate); 5–6 finalist teams
• Nationality: Domestic and international
• The award can be taken in: Turkey

Eligibility

• Eligible Countries: All countries
• Acceptable Course or Subjects: The award will be granted for projects in any discipline or subject offered by the university, including both disciplinary and interdisciplinary projects.
• Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Applicants must be undergraduate or graduate students

• Projects must be group-based and developed during the 2025–26 academic year

• Projects may be part of a course (e.g., ENGR 491 or similar project-based courses) or an independent student initiative

• Projects must address environmental, social, or economic sustainability challenges

• Interdisciplinary collaboration is encouraged but not mandatory.

Benefits

• Financial support for student-led sustainability initiatives

• University-wide recognition

• Opportunity to present projects to an interdisciplinary academic audience

• Platform to scale impactful sustainability solutions

How to Apply

Interested student teams must complete the online application form and upload all required materials before the deadline.

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