Yes, usually these kind of projects stem from the participation in conferences/ seminars etc. although these papers might not necessarily be published as conference proceedings, but take the form of edited books that include ad-hoc/ commissioned essays as well.
Taking part in conferences, organize sessions, making your work known to the wider audience, and networking, are always the best ways to have a chance to be part of these publications.
Sometimes you can find call for publications on the web sites of research institutions.
Depending in which field you work, you can also be the editor of a volume: approach a publisher/ prepare a publication proposal and invite scholars in your field to be part of it.