Showcasing international research locally

In autumn 2026, the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation is planning to hold an ideas competition “Stadt, Land, Hochschule” to showcase and honour the outstanding achievements of international researchers at German institutions of higher education, universities and non-university research establishments in their regions. For this, cooperation partners are being sought.

What’s it all about?

International researchers have long since become part of our towns and regions. They bring along their knowledge, perspectives and networks – and they decide where they want to live and work. Through “Stadt, Land, Hochschule”, the Humboldt Foundation is recognising academic institutions that actively support this internationality in society: by means of projects, developed with local partners such as clubs, companies and local authorities, that foster dialogue between academia and the region. At the same time, the Foundation wants to make clear what it means for Germany as a research location to be an open, inviting society: places which are appealing internationally attract the leading minds and benefit from them. 

The best projects will be selected by an independent jury drawn from academia, policymakers, civil society and the media and awarded €25,000  each. A public forum will gather the award winners together with local actors and policymakers to share experiences and encourage others to follow suit.

Looking for cooperation partners and additional support

Individuals as well as foundations, businesses and other organisations are invited to become collaborative partners and support the competition, whether by helping to finance an award, leveraging their network or by extending the project’s reach. 

Funding partners promote a proposal that connects two objectives which are more urgent than ever: to anchor international research in society and strengthen open, sustainable regions. You will be part of an initiative that sets an example and encourages others to launch their own projects and actions.

Anyone interested can contact Stanislav Linchevsky 
(Stanislav.Linchevsky@avh.de) directly with ideas or questions.