Call for papers: UNIC Thematic Conference in Bochum, February 2027

3 Jul 2026

Entrepreneurial learning, arts and creativity for inclusive and sustainable urban futures.

The 3rd UNIC Thematic Conference brings together the perspectives of UNIC’s Thematic Line 5 (Entrepreneurial Learning for Innovation) and Thematic Line 7 (Arts, Culture and Creativity), while drawing on the transversal contribution of Thematic Line 1 (Superdiversity).

Hosted by Ruhr University Bochum, the conference focuses on the role of creativity, culture, entrepreneurship, participation, and innovation in shaping the futures of post-industrial cities.

The conference seeks to explore how artistic practices, cultural initiatives, entrepreneurial approaches, and participatory methodologies can contribute to more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable urban futures. Particular attention will be given to the ways in which creative and human-centered approaches can foster innovation, strengthen communities, and support urban transformation in superdiverse contexts.

Proposals are invited from scholars, independent researchers, students, civil society actors, practitioners and policymakers. Submissions may include individual papers, thematic panels, workshops, book presentations, stakeholder roundtables, artist talks and student-led activities. Both theoretical and empirical work are welcome from applicants at all stages of their career.

Thematic streams: 

• Cultural Innovation, Arts and Creative Urban Transformation

• Entrepreneurship, Social Innovation and Creative Economies
• Participatory Methodologies, Co-Creation and Human-Centered Futures

• Inclusion, Accessibility and Community Engagement in Urban Futures

Deadline: 14 September
Find out more and submit: UNIC Thematic Conference Bochum 2027