Catalyst Lab
When the present feels overwhelmingly complex, unstable, and uncertain, we start searching.
We search for new paths into a better future, dreaming of beautiful worlds where our current, deep and systemic problems are eliminated.
Are you already searching?
The Catalyst Lab invites you on a journey that consists of three elements of this quest:
an introduction to systems thinking tools and methodologies to learn to look deeply and fearlessly at what is present
a personal awareness training, to acquire the strength and resilience to feel and to accept the complexities and contradictions, the paradoxes and double binds, present in our current reality
an exploration of different paths to step into the work of co-creating the future
About the Catalyst Lab:
The Catalyst Lab is a learning journey for individuals and teams seeking to learn about systems thinking, systems change, awareness-based systems change methodologies and participatory processes.
We explore different aspects of the question: How do living systems change? The concept of living systems includes the complex social and cultural systems that hold our way of life and work in place. What makes it so difficult to catalyse societal-level change even in the face of the enfolding ecological crisis? How do organisations, institutions, and societies change?
The Catalyst Lab supports the participants (Catalysts) in gaining a deeper understanding of the system and topic they are working on. During the process, participants acquire methodological competencies to drive awareness-based systems change, and up-to-date knowledge about the requirements for transformation.
The Catalyst Lab offers an in-depth and multifaceted support to find individual paths into the work of co-creating the future.
Express your interest for the learning journey you’re interested in
and we’ll get back to you within the next few days:
Highlights from Past Participants
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![Cristian Martucci, Catalyst Lab cohort 2023–2024]()
"The Catalyst Lab introduced me to various concepts and frameworks that helped me understand and challenge my assumptions about system change. A significant insight for me was the importance of thinking long-term while staying grounded in the values that connect us to the change we aspire to achieve. Previously, I was too focused on making the biggest impact immediately, often critically assessing my behaviour in a counterproductive way.”
– Cristian Martucci, Catalyst Lab cohort 2023–2024
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![Philipp Osterwalder, Catalyst Lab cohort 2023–2024]()
"Theory U provided me with a new perspective on systems change and transformation processes, including self-transformation. I learned that the U process can be applied to any challenge by viewing them as systems with root causes. Additionally, I gained insight into the importance of practising and listening to my intuition to harness my full potential."
– Philipp Osterwalder, Catalyst Lab cohort 2023–2024
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![Walter Zueck, Catalyst Lab cohort 2023–2024]()
"The Catalyst Lab exceeded my expectations in every dimension. The two facilitators were exceptional, ensuring that the group dynamic remained positive and productive. I felt well-supported throughout and confident that any situation would be handled professionally."
– Walter Zueck, Catalyst Lab cohort 2023–2024
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![Nathalie Kiepe Catalyst]()
"My highlights of the Catalyst Lab were the weekends spent with the other participants. Through the Catalyst Lab, I have gained a sense of empowerment by co-creating, doing, and taking action. I especially cherished the outdoor walks and the group work, which demonstrated that fun and work can coexist. This experience shifted my traditional views on work and learning, making the process more creative and enjoyable. It truly made learning fun again!"
– Nathalie Kiepe, Catalyst Lab cohort 2023–2024
FAQ
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The Catalyst Lab is an extended learning journey for individuals and teams seeking to learn about systems thinking, systems change, awareness-based systems change methodologies and participatory processes. You are preferably already involved in an initiative or a project, are in the process of starting one, or work in a department that strives for positive and sustainable change in your field.
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The Catalyst Lab helps changemakers get a deeper understanding of the system they are working on and empowers them to achieve a deeper systemic impact with their work.
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We updated to a fixed cost and value-based pricing model (read more). The fixed costs for the whole cycle (9 months) is 2000 CHF (including space rental, accommodation, food, and material). At the end of the Catalyst Lab, you decide how much to donate for our work based on the value you received.
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Yes, the Catalyst Lab can be joined if you work full time – we in fact encourage you to enrol in the Catalyst Lab while working on a sustainability project. It is to be noted that the modules take place on weekends and on evenings, and may still need participants to take some time off work for travel time. All the dates will be communicated in advance, as to allow participants to plan accordingly.
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The Catalyst Lab is hybrid. It comprises a total of 5 beautiful weekend retreats in the mountains, 2 in-person modules, and 6 online sessions.
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The online sessions take place on Zoom, and the on-site modules take place in different locations in Switzerland. Usually, the first module takes place in Bern, and the rest in a remote location in the Swiss mountains, where we enjoy the sublime scenery as a supplement energiser. All locations will be communicated in advance.
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The Catalyst Lab has several requirements, in order to ensure a successful experience.
Language: All modules are conducted in English. Participants should therefore be comfortable in spoken English. If language is a concern of you - please reach out, we’ll figure it out!
Time commitment: Participants must commit to joining the modules and online sessions, as well as to contribute their own part of the work between the modules.
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As soon as the Call for Catalysts opens up, you can submit your application through an online form. You will be asked to tell us about yourself, your projects, and your experiences. After reviewing your application, the hosting team will get in touch with you for an exchange where we will get to know each other better, and where all questions can be answered. After a short deliberation, the hosting team will let you know if you have been admitted to the Catalyst Lab. The enrolment will be concluded with an agreement form.
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At collaboratio helvetica, we work with awareness-based methodologies of systems change. The Catalyst Lab journey begins with a deeper understanding of oneself and gradually expands towards a broader understanding of others, their place within the system, and the system as a whole. This powerful approach allows individuals to get a better understanding of how to intervene in a system, namely with the gained knowledge and awareness of the system-related collective of stakeholders, and with a shared understanding of the system’s needs, roles, relationships, rules, and possibilities. Through this process, the participants will identify leverage points in their system, and learn how to use them to generate sustainable impact.
Would you like to partner up?
We are currently exploring different formats and topics for the Catalyst Lab, to make it accessible for more sectors, and to make it relevant to a broader audience. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you would like to have a conversation about a possible collaboration.
Catalyst Lab Facts & Figures
Impact of previous Cohorts
Learn more about the Catalyst Lab
The Catalyst Lab has been brought to life with the support of Mercator Foundation Switzerland, Georg and Bertha Schwyzer-Winiker Foundation, and the Federal Office for Spatial Development (ARE). The Catalyst Lab editions 1–5 (from 2019 until May 2025) have been made possible thanks to Mercator Foundation Switzerland.
