40 million SEK for research on robust, climate-neutral and socially sustainable living environments

A new call is now open. ArkDes, Formas and the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MCF) invite municipalities and regions to apply for project funding totalling 40 million SEK. Using architecture and design as tools, the projects will support local transitions towards climate neutrality and increased resilience, while also contributing to socially sustainable and attractive living environments.

The way we design our cities and built environments plays a crucial role in society’s ability to address climate challenges and strengthen preparedness. Architecture, design and spatial design are therefore key tools in the transition towards sustainable and resilient living environments.

The call Kommuner utformade för framtiden – klimatneutrala, robusta och socialt hållbara (“Municipalities Designed for the Future – Climate-Neutral, Resilient and Socially Sustainable”) is aimed at municipalities and regions in collaboration with universities and higher education institutions. Its purpose is to strengthen research that makes a tangible difference in local transitions.

Funded projects are expected to develop knowledge on how cities and communities can become more climate-neutral, resilient and socially sustainable. They should also explore methods and solutions that can be applied in practice and support the development of future living environments.

The call is part of ArkDes’ strategic work to strengthen knowledge development within the field of the designed living environment and the national policy for architecture, design and the arts. To create synergies and support learning and exchange, ArkDes will organise joint knowledge-building activities between funded projects and participating actors. In this way, research, practice and policy can meet, strengthening individual projects while also enabling new approaches and results to be shared more widely.

The call includes both preparatory and follow-up projects. Projects previously funded by ArkDes, the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency or Formas may apply for funding to further develop knowledge and results from earlier initiatives.

The call is open from 24 April 2026 to 16 September 2026, 14:00.
Projects will start in March 2027.