Project Funding by the Foundation for Environment and Development North Rhine-Westphalia

The project funding of the Stiftung Umwelt und Entwicklung Nordrhein-Westfalen is aimed at non-profit organizations, interest groups, associations, educational institutions, as well as committed individuals based or active in North Rhine-Westphalia. The focus is on projects that contribute to environmental and nature conservation, climate protection, education for sustainable development, social cohesion and democracy, energy efficiency, vocational training, or work and social affairs. Funding is provided for initiatives that implement the global sustainability goals (SDGs) while strengthening civic engagement. Financing is granted as a subsidy for personnel and material costs, travel expenses, hospitality, and acquisitions up to a funding amount of €10,000 continuously, and beyond that at fixed submission deadlines four times a year. A prerequisite is proven eligibility to apply as well as a detailed project description with a financing plan.

In addition to financial support, applicants benefit from individual consulting and networking opportunities offered by the foundation, which has supported around 1,900 projects with a total of more than €94 million since its inception. The application process is conducted digitally in two stages: first, eligibility is verified, followed by the submission of the complete application. The proof of use and expense accounting are accompanied by practical guidelines that are regularly updated. With this program, the foundation aims to strengthen sustainable initiatives, improve the quality of life locally, and promote innovative solutions for pressing ecological, social, and educational policy challenges in North Rhine-Westphalia.