Project Funding by the Foundation Eyes Open! Monument and Culture

The project funding of the augen auf! Denkmal und Kultur Foundation is aimed nationwide at non-profit organizations as well as educational institutions with the goal of strengthening democratic coexistence and conveying core values such as humanity, diversity, civil courage, and tolerance. The focus is on witness work, where survivors of historical tyranny engage directly in conversations with young people at secondary schools. In addition, the foundation supports the development of strong networks between schools to realize joint events that actively involve students in planning and implementation. Funding is provided in the form of grants and supports projects in the fields of education, culture, labor & social affairs, as well as training & further education. The non-partisan approach places special emphasis on promoting a vibrant culture of remembrance and commemoration as a foundation for lived democracy.

Interest in funding is particularly present among secondary schools that implement a project with a clear reference to democracy and humanity and ensure the involvement of young people. Applications can be submitted at any time; there is no deadline. A prerequisite for funding is implementation at a school, integration of eyewitnesses, and a thematic focus on democratic values. All application outlines are evaluated according to the criteria “project relevance to democracy and humanity,” “involvement of young people,” and “witness work.” Through continuous funding opportunities, the foundation also offers long-term planning security for school projects that sustainably shape the social image and empower young people to actively promote democracy.