We are delighted to introduce the eight initiatives selected to join the Sparks of Regeneration incubation journey in 2026. Beginning in January, these initiatives, rooted in different places, cultures, and perspectives, will collectively explore regenerative futures not as a single path forward but as many life-affirming experiments unfolding together.
The Sparks of Regeneration Call for entries was not designed as a competition to find “winners”. Instead, it was an intentional, value-led process to form a cohort that embodies diversity and complementarity. The selected ideas represent diverse geographies, lived experiences, ways of knowing, and approaches to regeneration.
We are excited about the opportunity to support these eight initiatives through the incubation process. In the coming year, we will be sharing their work, stories, and learnings as their journey unfolds.
The response to the open call was extraordinary, and the selection process was both rigorous and challenging.
We received 576 completed applications, reflecting an incredible breadth of energy and imagination. Submissions came from people in 80 countries, representing 107 nationalities, with substantial gender diversity and broad representation across backgrounds. Submissions were rooted most strongly in Sub-Saharan Africa, Europe, and Central & Southern Asia, creating a vibrant and colourful mosaic of perspectives and possibilities.
“I really enjoyed seeing and reading such optimism in the regeneration field. It was inspiring to imagine what the world could look like if each of these ideas were fully actualized. I was also moved by the creativity expressed across the proposals” - Phoebe, juror, Sparks of Regeneration
An inspiring group of experts with global experience in regenerative practice, biomimicry, land rights, sustainability finance, transdisciplinary research, sustainable innovation, and healing-centred systems design guided the selection process.
Our jurors shared how profoundly moved they were by the breadth and depth of the applications. We are grateful for the care and mindfulness they brought to the process.
To everyone who applied: Thank you! Each submission reflected deep commitment and hope for regenerative futures, and we honour the time, thought and heart that went into every idea shared.
Beginning in January 2026, the eight initiatives will participate in an eight-month incubation programme. Alongside a grant of CHF 10,000 and access to a shared pool of CHF 50,000 in non-financial support, the cohort will be supported by an experienced group of facilitators, designers, and strategic thinkers. This cohort-based journey is supported by an extraordinary group of facilitators, designers, and strategic thinkers who bring deep experience in systems change, community building, and transformative learning. Together, they will guide the cohort through an incubation journey rooted in care, rigour, and regenerative practice. A process that will help deepen understanding, test assumptions, and learn with and from one another through shared inquiry, practice, and exchange.
For any further questions, please contact regenerativefutures@unearthodox.org.
