Supporting ideas that change lives, communities, and the planet
Every year, hundreds of local organizations, schools, researchers and community groups look for a way to bring science, environmental action or social well‑being to life. Since 2013, the Fonds Ernest Solvay has aimed to be that catalyst. In just over a decade, the Fund has received 1,900 applications, supported 347 projects and invested more than €2 million to help good ideas become real solutions.
Today, Solvay opens its 2026 call for projects, inviting people with practical, hands‑on ideas to apply for support of up to €10,000 per initiative. Applications are open from April 15, 2026 until September 30, 2026 and are managed with the support of the King Baudouin Foundation.
“What makes the Fonds Ernest Solvay special is that it empowers local educators, volunteers, scientists and citizens who want to make a difference,” said Mark Van Bijsterveld, Solvay Chief People Officer. “Across all these projects, the same idea emerges: when people have the tools to learn, experiment and create, communities become stronger. This is how we bring our Better Life commitment to life: by supporting the people who support their communities.”
Solvay operates more than 40 industrial sites worldwide, each surrounded by communities where education, environmental protection and well‑being are everyday challenges. The Fund is designed for them: projects must take place within a 100‑km radius of a Solvay industrial site, ensuring the impact is local, tangible and felt globally.
The Ernest Solvay Fund supports concrete initiatives in three areas:
- Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) education: making science and technology accessible, engaging and inclusive.
- Planet progress: helping communities protect biodiversity, water, air, and natural resources.
- Better life: strengthening safety, health, inclusion, psychological resilience and economic opportunities.
For many organizations, this Fund provides the first boost that turns a promising idea into something that can genuinely make a difference.
All practical information, eligibility criteria and the application form are available Fonds Ernest Solvay 2026.
A glimpse of real‑world impact with 3 out of 11 initiatives supported through last year’s call for projects:
