After hosting an experiment at Sónar 2026, Cotec and Sónar+D are teaming up again, this time launching an international Open Call for an installation to occupy Cotec’s KNOWCASE space in Madrid. The deadline for applications is Monday 7th September 2026. Who are Cotec?Cotec is a non-profit organisation dedicated to the promotion of innovation in support of social development and economic growth. It's headquarters are in Madrid’s central Chamberí district, right next to Teatros del Canal.What’s KNOWCASE?KNOWCASE is a street level shop front window located at Cotec’s Madrid headquarters, visible form the street 24 hours a day. It serves as a showcase for permanent installations, a space that links the creative arts with knowledge sharing, and invites the general public to observe and participate. What are we looking for?For this Open Call, we’re inviting artists, collectives, designers, technologists, universities, research centres, start–ups, businesses, creative agencies, producers, cultural institutions, and multidisciplinary teams to imagine the next installation to be hosted by KNOWCASE, from 2027 onwards. We’re looking for original, new (that have never been exhibited before) proposals in the field of digital culture. The proposals should include a combination of knowledge, research, science, and data with art, technology, and social impact. Additionally, they should include a participative and interactive element, encourage critical thinking and reflection, and be viable for exhibition throughout the entire period (minimum 24 months).Generally, proposals should tackle a theme or themes related to art, science, culture and society. Cotec is particularly interested in transitions: from an analogue to digital society, from a linear to circular model of production and consumption, and from a tangible to intangible economy. Cotec also produces research and knowledge on the R&D&I ecosystem, the climate crisis, the future of work, new forms of learning, social and territorial divides, citizen participation, the health of democracy, and innovation in the public sector.What do we offer?The selected proposal will receive a maximum budget of €100,000 € (+IVA), which should cover all costs associated with the project: conceptualisation, design, technical development, production, installation, maintenance, documentation of the proposal; as well as any artist fees. This also includes travel, accommodation, insurance and anything else required for the delivery and exhibition of the project throughout the stated period. How do I apply?If you’re interested in applying, first read through the terms and conditions, where you’ll also find the link to the application portal. The Open Call closes at midnight on Monday 7th September 2026: any proposals received after this date will not be accepted.
