German Reading Award

Since 2013, the German Reading Award has been recognizing outstanding and innovative reading promotion initiatives nationwide, honoring the commitment of individuals, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and public bodies. The goal is to sustainably strengthen the joy of reading and reading competence across all age groups and to support proven best-practice approaches. Each year, projects are awarded in various categories based on their social relevance, multiperspectivity, and sustainable action. The award highlights the diversity and creativity with which reading promotion can be designed in Germany and provides new ideas with the necessary momentum for realization.

Applications must be submitted exclusively via the online form and be fully completed by June 30, 2026. Applications are accepted only in the specified categories; in addition to the form, up to three files (PDF, JPG, PNG) totaling a maximum of five A4 pages, as well as an optional video (MP4/MOV, max. 100 MB), may be uploaded. Selection is based on the criteria of innovation, sustainability, and social participation. The application is open to all actors in Germany engaged in reading promotion for children, adolescents, vocational and further education, as well as social inclusion. The initiator of the German Reading Award is Stiftung Lesen, which, together with partners such as the Commerzbank Foundation, designs and advances the award program.