The model program “LOKAL – Program for Culture and Engagement”, which is open to applications, supports the establishment of at least 26 long-term networks in cities and municipalities with fewer than 100,000 inhabitants throughout Germany. Up to 240,000 euros are available per project for four years. The overall program will be implemented from 2024 to 2031 by the Federal Cultural Foundation, the Federal Agency for Civic Education/bpb and the European Cultural Foundation and includes academies and consulting, a European exchange and accompanying program as well as a nationwide closing festival. The Federal Cultural Foundation is providing 7.5 million euros for the open-application fund.
In times of polarization, cultural venues offer opportunities for discussion and debate, especially in smaller cities: they often bring together people who would otherwise not be in contact with each other. Art and cultural associations, socio-cultural centers, theaters and libraries are therefore also important meeting places within a pluralistic and democratic society. But they are under increasing pressure. Which partners can a cultural association in the countryside work with on a long-term basis to provide public spaces with art projects in which everyone can participate safely and actively? Who can libraries and theaters connect with to initiate community-building projects?
Committed cultural players are looking for new partners: sports clubs, schools and daycare centers, the volunteer fire department or local companies. The aim is for them to work together in artistic projects on a long-term basis, creating new local communities of responsibility. The artists involved develop artistic projects together with local people, debate social issues and organize social interaction.
The program is accompanied by targeted consulting services, for example for location analyses and sustainable financing as well as conflict management and legal options in the event of hostility. The projects also network with each other in accompanying academies, for which the Federal Agency for Civic Education/bpb is responsible.
Application deadline: February 14, 2025