KITA21 (S.O.F. Save Our Future – Environmental Foundation)

The KITA21 initiative of S.O.F. Save Our Future – Environmental Foundation targets daycare centers and childminders in Hamburg, Schleswig-Holstein, and since January 2025 also in Lower Saxony. As part of a comprehensive qualification and award process, educational professionals are supported through training, individual counseling, and networking opportunities to firmly integrate education for sustainable development (ESD), resource conservation, and climate-friendly actions into everyday daycare routines. Participating institutions benefit from practice-oriented workshops and digital coaching, learn how to empower children as active future shapers, and are annually recognized for their commitment with the KITA21 seal. This creates a vibrant network that consolidates innovative ideas and proven methods for future-oriented education.

Eligible for funding are all educational institutions in the specified funding area that wish to establish themselves as learning sites for sustainable development. Selection is based on criteria such as exemplary resource conservation, consistent implementation of sustainable action processes, and commitment to ESD. Continuous applications for the grant are possible, with deadlines for the following year announced in due time. With the support of the program, educational teams are enabled to systematically further develop their environmental education work and publicly advocate for a sustainable future. The annual award honors outstanding achievements and provides impetus for the continuous improvement of early education in the spirit of a climate-friendly and socially responsible society.