All employees – The Sustainable Proposal Testbed

A sustainable workplace – from idea to reality 

Lund University is deeply committed to its sustainability strategy and sustainability plan. We know that change requires new ideas, and that good ideas can come from all employees within the organisation. In 2026, up to four projects will receive support of up to SEK 300,000 each, and the project period must be completed by December 31, 2026.

Who can apply?

The main applicant must be employed at Lund University. The employment can be as administrative and technical staff, researcher, doctoral student, postdoctoral fellow, teaching assistant, or student employee. Your employment needs to cover the planned project period. An individual may serve as the main applicant for only one application. However, applicants are encouraged to form working groups for their projects. You need approval from your line manager before applying if you plan to work on your proposal during your work day.

What can be funded?

The awarded funding covers activities required to develop, demonstrate, verify, or investigate a proposed solution to an actual need or problem. It should cover all costs to implement the proposal, including personnel costs, purchases, travel, and overhead costs. The funds can be used to implement or build on results from previous projects. However, it is not permitted to use the funds to invest  in someone else's land, property, or premises, and they may not be used for continued operations after the project's completion.

What do we mean by sustainability?

This grant targets projects that deliver positive environmental and social impact with potential financial viability. Sustainable development is about fulfilling today’s needs without jeopardising future generations’ opportunities to satisfy theirs. This requires a balance between economic growth, environmental care and social well-being.  In the application form, we will ask you to motivate the idea’s sustainability impact. 

Evaluation criteria


All proposals will be evaluated by an assessment group. They will be assessed based on criteria, including the challenge addressed by the proposal, whether the project leads to new solutions, possible sustainability impact, feasibility, and expected results.

Follow-up


Half of the funding is paid to the cost center where the main applicant is employed at the start of the project. The other half is paid out upon project completion. Projects must be reported within one month after completion, with a report of a maximum of three pages including financial accounts. The report should include a description of the results and effects achieved in line with the application. In the report, you should describe any deviations from the plan. Furthermore, you should detail whether the project has led to other effects, such as increased interest in new projects or discussions within or outside the workplace.

Project progress meetings will be held as needed, but at least once halfway through. The administrative function of the Lund University Sustainability Fund convenes project progress meetings.

Click here to access to Lund University’s sustainability plan and strategy