Applications for the KIVI EngD Award 2026 are now open. If you work on innovative solutions with societal value or know someone who does, now is the time to nominate someone for the KIVI EngD Award 2026. This award will give individual achievements within the Engineering Doctorate (EngD) programme the recognition they deserve and increase their visibility.
The KIVI EngD Award underlines the value of the Dutch EngD programme, which forms a strong link between research and industry and thus contributes to the innovative strength of the Netherlands.
Sign up
Signing up for the KIVI EngD Award is possible from now and can be done until 1 November 2026. After the closing date, an independent jury will evaluate the entries and ultimately choose the winner. A public prize will also be awarded, with the public deciding the winner. Candidates are eligible for the award if they graduate within an EngD programme in 2026.
The KIVI EngD Award will be presented during the KIVI EngD Award Ceremony, which this year will take place on 3 December 2026 from 10am to 6pm. The day will focus on substantive sessions, networking opportunities and the award ceremony.
Assessment by an independent jury
The entries will be assessed by an independent jury with representatives from academia, industry and society. This will look at innovativeness, social and industrial impact and the degree of leadership and cooperation.
Why participate
Participation offers the opportunity to make work visible within a relevant professional network and gain experience in presenting and pitching. Candidates present at the award ceremony receive a free KIVI membership for one year.
Participation also provides additional visibility, including through communication channels and an interview in De Ingenieur upon winning. Winners also receive a prestigious art object and a cash prize.
Last year, Elze Swinkels and Shachi Marthu Shanbhag walked away with the KIVI EngD Award and the audience prize, respectively. Want to know more about last year's winners? Read it here.
