Grant

Funding of the Foundation for Intellectual Freedom

The Geistesfreiheit Foundation supports freethinking, free-humanistic, and scientifically progressive projects, such as youth initiation ceremonies, educational publications, and exchange programs. Applications can be submitted continuously.

Social Cohesion/Democracy Children and Youth Education Education for Sustainable Development Culture

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Grant criteria

Application Deadline: Ongoing
Application level: Advanced
Region: Germany (nationwide)
Project duration: ongoing
Only for non-profit organizations

Funding objective

Support for the free-spirited, free-humanistic, and scientifically progressive movement on a scientific basis, in particular projects related to youth and educational work, training courses, free-religious instruction, and publications such as the magazine »Freier Blick«.

Eligible expenses

  • Educational and training courses
  • Publications and materials
  • Travel and accommodation costs for exchange
  • Fees for speakers
  • Rental costs for premises

Non-eligible expenses

  • Investments in real estate
  • Repayment of debts
  • Pure advertising and image campaigns

Eligible to apply

  • Non-profit Organizations

Funding requirements

  • Statutory orientation towards free-spirited, free-humanistic education
  • Projects without religious or commercial objectives
  • German headquarters of the project sponsor

Documents required for application

  1. Project description
  2. Financial plan
  3. Association or federation statutes
  4. Proof of non-profit status

Evaluation criteria

  • Alignment with the foundation's purpose
  • Degree of innovation
  • Involvement of young people
  • Sustainability of the project

Description

At the summer camp of Jugendweihe Deutschland e.V. in Bitburg, over 150 young people from nine regional associations experienced a vibrant mix of adventure, culture, and community. In tent villages set in greenery, participants forged their first international friendships, while daily workshops on democracy, tolerance, and environmental protection provided substantive inspiration. During the Bitburg rally, excursions to Trier and Luxembourg, as well as hikes through the Devil’s Gorge, all participants explored sights and regional traditions—always supported by experienced course leaders and helpers. Sports and creative activities, ranging from beach volleyball tournaments and climbing sessions to open-air concerts on the tent stage, offered balance, fun, and unforgettable shared experiences. The evening event “Bitburger Nacht” invited attendees to celebrate and engage in informal exchange with intercultural performances and campfire bread baking.

Over these nine days, the camp playfully conveyed values such as respect, solidarity, and participation—even across language barriers, as young ambassadors from Belarus and France joined German youths for the first time. Language cafés and country days promoted dialogue and demonstrated how diverse cultural backgrounds enrich coexistence. In projects focused on climate-friendly design of the tent village and food supply, participants practiced effective self-initiative. During the final outdoor adventure, they received the camp certificate in recognition of curiosity, team spirit, and commitment. Feedback showed that those who live community at the Bitburg summer camp not only broaden their horizons but also become active personalities in a sustainable coexistence. Further information about the summer camp and other international encounters can be found on the association’s websites.

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