State Fund Brandenburg for the Participation of Children and Youth in Democracy and Elections

The Brandenburg State Fund for the Participation of Children and Youth in Democracy and Elections is an innovative funding program developed in cooperation with the German Children’s Fund. The program targets non-profit organizations and public institutions in the state of Brandenburg and supports projects that promote age-appropriate political participation of children and youth. A particular focus is placed on measures to involve disadvantaged young people and those with a migration background in political decision-making processes. Funding is provided as a grant and can be applied for on an ongoing basis, allowing diverse initiatives that create space for new participatory approaches to continuously receive opportunities for active involvement.

The funding program aims at sustainably strengthening social cohesion as well as democratic participation. Projects are to be supported in which children and youth—as participants and co-creators—can gain experience in democratic processes. In addition to traditional projects in the areas of engagement for social cohesion and work & social affairs, innovative ideas that contribute to the integration of children and youth from various social and cultural backgrounds are also supported. Eligible expenses primarily include fees, personnel costs, and material costs, while ongoing costs of existing institutions, construction measures, or equipment of educational institutions are not considered. An important aspect is also the requirement of a co-financing contribution of at least 10 percent of the eligible expenses, which can also be provided as a monetary contribution from third-party funds.

With a funding amount of up to 5,000 euros, the program offers an attractive financial framework to strengthen democratic participation at the local level. Applicant organizations benefit from flexible application submission, as applications can be made continuously, thus allowing room for both spontaneous and long-term planned projects. The committed support of young people in their self-efficacy and political participation further promotes cultural discourse and contributes to the development of sustainable community structures. The offer is aimed at organizations that develop and implement innovative concepts, whereby close cooperation with youth initiatives that are not legally registered is also possible. Overall, the Brandenburg State Fund makes a significant contribution to forward-looking democracy promotion in the region.