Solidarity Projects in the European Solidarity Corps Programme
The European Solidarity Corps program supports solidarity projects and volunteer activities of young people between 18 and 30 years old to address societal challenges and to strengthen solidarity, inclusion, and European identity.
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Grant criteria
Funding objective
The aim of the funding is to implement high-quality solidarity activities that provide young people with valuable non-formal learning experiences, address societal needs, and support cohesion in Europe.
Eligible expenses
- Travel expenses
- Management costs
- Living expenses
- Inclusion support
- Preparatory visits
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Non-eligible expenses
- Salaries
- Profit-taking
- Costs replacing jobs
Eligible to apply
- Non-profit Organizations
- Public Institutions
Funding requirements
- Organizations must be established in an EU Member State, an associated third country, or a non-associated third country
- Participants must be between 18 and 30 years old (up to 35 years old for humanitarian aid)
- Participants must be registered in the European Solidarity Corps Portal
- A valid quality label is a prerequisite for participation and for submitting an application
Documents required for application
- Application form
- Declaration of honor
- Proof of quality seal
- Project plan
Evaluation criteria
- Relevance, Objectives and Impact (max. 30 points)
- Quality of Project Planning (max. 40 points)
- Quality of Project Management (max. 30 points)
Description
Solidarity projects within the European Solidarity Corps programme promote committed, intercultural, and inclusive volunteer activities by young people aged 18 to 30 – and up to 35 in humanitarian aid. This funding is aimed at non-profit organizations as well as public institutions in the EU that independently initiate and implement local projects. The objective of the grant funding is to address societal challenges through high-quality, solidarity-based intervention and learning projects, to strengthen social cohesion, and to sustainably promote European identity. Activities supported range from volunteering, workshops, and community projects to innovative solutions, thereby contributing not only to the personal development of participants but also to the strengthening of local communities.
Within this programme, project promoters receive a grant of up to €400,000 per project, covering flexible eligible costs. Examples include travel expenses, management and living costs, inclusion support, as well as costs for preparatory visits and operational measures. The funding encourages young people to acquire important skills through non-formal learning – from intercultural competencies to social engagement – and to intensify their own civil society participation. Projects are implemented over several phases: planning, preparation, implementation, and follow-up. Through a structured quality assurance system and the commitment to principles such as equal opportunities, transparency, and sustainability, it is ensured that the selected projects make an impact not only locally but also across Europe.
The call is distinguished by its special focus on the European added value and the sustainable impact of the projects. Solidarity projects are intended to inspire innovative ideas to solve existing social and ecological problems – for example, through the preservation of cultural heritage, promotion of healthy lifestyles, or support for disadvantaged groups. Supported by qualitative evaluation and monitoring tools, such as the Youthpass, the programme offers participating organizations and young people a valuable non-formal learning experience that lays the foundation for future committed work in Europe. This fosters not only individual and collective development but also establishes the basis for a sustainable, inclusive European society.