Falling Walls Engage

Science Engagement

We define Science Engagement as activities, events, or interactions bridging the gap between science and society to generate mutual learning and benefits across the spectrum of public engagement and interactive science communication. 

Engagement is a two-way process aimed at shaping and co-creating scientific processes, and promoting active community involvement in scientific knowledge production. 

Since 2024, we have established a thematic focus on Climate Action. We are particularly looking for innovative, high-impact science-engagement projects that drive meaningful mitigation or adaptation efforts and empower communities dealing with the impacts of climate change. The projects applying for the Falling Walls Engage Pitches are required to address climate action as a core element.

Impact

We define the impact of Science Engagement initiatives as long-lasting improvements on people’s lives. By offering opportunities to participate actively in scientific processes and become an integral part in scientific developments, Science Engagement empowers people to make informed and fact-based decisions. Thus, it has a positive impact on the empowerment of all people, co-creative knowledge production, the perception of scientific facts and overall the wellbeing of our society.

Eligibility criteria:

• Organisations and individuals active in Science Engagement.
• All disciplines and project sizes are welcome, but a focus needs to be on the topic of "Climate Action"
• Project must already be running. Applications at the idea or funding stage are not eligible.
• Applicants must be 18 years or older at the time of submission.
• Applications must be submitted in English.
• Only projects that have never been presented (physically or digitally) at Falling Walls Engage. 

The Falling Walls Science Breakthrough of the Year in the category Science Engagement is an exemplary, inspiring, and impactful initiative that:

• breaks down walls between science and society with its individual approach on climate change;
• engages with people in the process of science, promotes opportunities for co-learning, co-leadership and co-creation and creates excitement for and trust in science;
• shows a project that is new, unique, innovative, forward-thinking and entrepreneurial.

Selection criteria:

• Impact (40%): Initiatives with measurable and significant, lasting and sustained impact that have long-term impact in people's lives and on climate adaptation as a result.
• Innovation (30%): New, unique, inspiring, entrepreneurial, and forward-thinking projects that tackle the biggest challenges of our time, such as climate change.
• Approach (20%): Inclusive participatory formats of all levels: from public panels to arts-driven or entertaining approaches to co-productive research. The common ground is a two-way process with the goal to shape and co-create scientific knowledge together.
• Overall Impression (10%): Structure and quality of application. On 7 November: Structure and quality of pitch presentation on stage in front of an international audience.

For some inspiration, check out our Shortlisted Applicants & Finalists from previous years!

STEP 1 – 30 Shortlisted Applicants

A pre-selection committee will go through all received applications and select 30 Shortlisted Applicants (June).

• A list of the 30 Shortlisted Applicants with their project websites and social media handles will be published on the Falling Walls Engage website (June/July).
• Onboarding into our global community of Science Engagement practitioners via a virtual community session (July).

STEP 2 – 15 Finalists

An Advisory Board will select 15 Finalists (July).

• The list of the 15 Finalists with their project websites and social media handles will be published on the Falling Walls Engage website (July).
• Onboarding into our global community of Science Engagement practitioners via a virtual community session (August).
• Digital pitch training workshop (August/September).

STEP 3 – 1 Science Breakthrough of the Year

A Jury will select 1 Science Breakthrough of the Year (November).

• Be part of the Engage Community Day with co-learning workshops and more (6 Nov).
• The 15 Finalists will pitch their projects on stage in Berlin (7 Nov).
• A distinguished jury will select one Breakthrough of the Year (7 Nov).
• The Breakthrough of the Year will present on stage at the Falling Walls Breakthrough Day (9 Nov).

SAVE THE DATE

7 – 9 Nov 2026 – Falling Walls Science Summit 2026 in Berlin*

*The event format and timeline is subject to modification depending on external factors.

Benefits for the 30 Shortlisted Applicants

• Unique networking-opportunities with like-minded Science Engagement practitioners & professionals and peers around the world. 
• A hands-on pitch training session to refine your presentation and storytelling skills. 
• Increased global visibility for you and your initiative. 
• Access to our global community, to connect and collaborate with community members. 

Extra benefits for the 15 Finalists

• A travel scholarship to Berlin from 6 – 10 November 2026 and a ticket for the Falling Walls Science Summit 2026. 
• The opportunity to showcase your project on stage in front of an international audience and a distinguished jury  
• A chance to become the Science Breakthrough of the Year 2025 in Science Engagement. 
• In-depth co-learning and peer exchange with the Falling Walls Community , partners and global leaders. 
• Your live pitch published in the Falling Walls media library.  

Additional benefits for the Science Breakthrough of the Year

• Pitch your project in front of a physical and virtual audience – including global leaders, award-winning professionals, media, and industry experts on 9 November on the main stage of the Falling Walls Science Summit.

Find more details information about Falling Walls Engage Pitches 2026 here.

If you have further questions, please reach out to: engage@falling-walls.com.