Private Initiatives

The "Private Initiatives" program of the International Islamic Foundation – Education and Culture (IISW) supports small, non-profit projects nationwide in the fields of culture, art, and education that promote intercultural exchange and the integration of Muslims. Funding is provided for projects by individual Muslims or groups who have no prospect of other funding sources and are specifically committed to strengthening social cohesion and democratic participation. The funding is granted as a subsidy covering up to 70% of the eligible total costs, provided that at least 30% own financing is demonstrated. Applications can be submitted continuously but must be received by the IISW no later than three months before the project start date. Funding is possible once per applicant per year; disbursement is made exclusively to an account of the applying institution.

The selection of supported projects is based on four key criteria: alignment with the IISW’s objectives, quality of project design, sustainability of impact, and development potential. For the application, a completed funding application, a detailed project description, a financing plan, and proof of own contribution are required. In addition to the technical review, the funding aims to make a sustainable contribution to intercultural dialogue and to strengthen the networking of Islamic internet forums and initiatives in the cultural sector. Through this investment in education and culture, the Foundation makes an important contribution to integration and helps ensure that Muslims become visible and effective as independent actors in modern, multicultural society.