Project Funding - German Postcode Lottery

The German Postcode Lottery offers an attractive nationwide project funding program that enables non-profit organizations to implement innovative initiatives in the field of "People & Nature." The funding program targets projects that combine equal opportunities, social cohesion, and nature and environmental protection. Projects with exemplary character and sustainable impact are supported, achieving significant ecological and societal added value. There are three different funding levels – up to €30,000, €100,000, and €250,000 per project – to optimally support various types of projects in the respective funding rounds.

The funding is aimed at legally recognized organizations that are acknowledged as non-profit or charitable by the tax office and have their registered office in Germany. A prerequisite for funding includes, among other things, a current exemption notice as well as alignment of activities with the defined funding priorities. Eligible expenses include personnel and freelance costs, administrative expenses, and project-related material costs. Applications are submitted digitally and initially require the submission of a letter of interest, which, after a preliminary review, provides access data for the funding portal for further processing of the funding application. As part of the application process, documents such as the statutes, annual financial statements, and financing plan must also be submitted alongside the project description. This ensures that the requested funds are used exclusively for the intended purpose.

The selection of projects is based on various evaluation criteria such as innovation content, sustainable impact potential, and public benefit. The program requires a minimum co-financing of 20 percent of the total costs – with voluntary engagement also counting towards this calculation. Particular emphasis is placed on ensuring that funded initiatives link both social and ecological aspects to strengthen social cohesion and protect the environment. With a project duration of 12 months, the German Postcode Lottery offers a clear framework that guarantees transparency and efficiency in the funding process. This funding thus represents an ideal opportunity for organizations whose projects can significantly contribute to improving quality of life and environmental protection.