Join UM50
Got an idea? Submit it!
In 2026, Maastricht University celebrates its 50th anniversary. We are not doing this alone, but together with the city and the region.
That is why, this year, we are making funding available for initiatives that contribute to a stronger connection between the university and society. In addition, we are opening our anniversary agenda to events in Maastricht and the surrounding region that align with this idea.
Do you have an idea?
Do you have an idea that brings Maastricht University into contact with residents of Maastricht and the region – or vice versa? Please submit your idea by 1 March at the latest. After this date, submissions are no longer possible.
Think of a lecture in a community centre, a science day for children, a health stand at the market, or a walk through the city or region highlighting UM research. If your idea creates a connection between society and UM’s education or research, we are happy to help you realise your project and promote it.
What can you apply for?
- A small project: funding from €500 to €2,000
- A large project: funding from €2,001 to €5,000
All amounts include VAT. Only out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed (hours worked are not reimbursed).
We expect to fund approximately 12 small projects and 3 large projects.
Who can apply?
This call is open to:
- UM staff, students and alumni who wish to make UM and its work accessible to a wider audience.
- Individuals, organisations and communities from Maastricht and the region who wish to involve UM in their neighbourhood, initiative or organisation, and who have a contact person at UM.
Please note: the lead applicant must always be an employee of Maastricht University.
Selection criteria
The UM50 programme committee consists of: Teun Dekker (Chair), Meta Knol, Rob van Duijn, Anita Bastiaans and Roos Goorman.
The committee will assess submitted project proposals based on the following criteria:
- The project aligns with the theme of the anniversary year: connecting the university community and its work with residents of Maastricht and Limburg.
- The project relates to one or more of UM’s statutory tasks:
- Providing publicly funded education, including fostering social cohesion and a positive study environment for students.
- Conducting independent academic research.
- Valorisation of UM research results: activities through which UM research results are shared with the public and/or used to create social or economic value.
- The project is aimed at a broad audience and is accessible to both UM staff and/or students and people outside the university.
- The project takes place in calendar year 2026.
- The project is realistic, feasible and achievable within the available budget.
- The project aligns with UM’s core values: diversity and inclusivity, sustainability, mutual respect, integrity, democracy and transparency.
Submit your idea and budget
Do you have a strong idea that meets the criteria above? You can apply as follows:
- Prepare a budget for your plan (only out-of-pocket costs are reimbursed).
- Send both documents to UM50@maastrichtuniversity.nl.
The deadline for submission is 1 March 2026. We will announce which projects will receive funding by 1 April 2026 at the latest.
No funding needed?
Do you have a project that fits perfectly with the UM50 theme, but does not require funding? Submit it for inclusion in the UM50 agenda via UM50@maastrichtuniversity.nl.