EKA Applied Research, Development and Creative Works Award

The Estonian Academy of Arts’ Applied Research, Development and Creative Works Competition recognises outstanding projects that create value beyond academia and contribute to the development of business, the public sector, communities, and the living environment. The competition aims to highlight course projects and theses that demonstrate a clear practical application and the potential to generate a positive impact on society.

The competition welcomes research, development and creative works produced by bachelor’s and master’s students, as well as the most recent graduates of the Estonian Academy of Arts, in the course of their studies or creative practice. Eligible submissions include, for example, studies, analyses, creative and practice-based research projects, development projects, commissioned works, theses, and other works with a demonstrable applied outcome.

Through this annual competition, the Estonian Academy of Arts seeks to encourage students to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world contexts, support knowledge transfer, and foster new collaborations and entrepreneurial initiatives. The competition also helps showcase solutions, ideas and creative works developed at the Academy that have an impact on the economy, social well-being, or the living environment.

Submissions are evaluated on the basis of their applied value, impact, novelty and originality, as well as the quality of their execution. The best works are recognised with monetary awards and, where applicable, special prizes sponsored by partner organisations.

The total prize fund is up to €3,200. The competition committee determines the number and value of the awards granted each year.

The competition is organised by the Research and Development Office of the Estonian Academy of Arts. Detailed participation requirements, deadlines and submission materials are announced when the competition is officially launched in June of each year.

Explore current competition calls and previous years’ winning projects below.