The CrossCulture Grants (CCG) are now open for applications, offering €4,500 in funding to support collaborative projects between two partner organisations working across borders. This initiative is designed to strengthen international cooperation, knowledge exchange, and practical solutions to global challenges through short-term staff collaboration.
Administered by the Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen (ifa), the CrossCulture Grants support professionals and organisations committed to social transformation, sustainability, peacebuilding, and cultural exchange.
Application Deadline: 16 February 2026
What Are the CrossCulture Grants?
The CrossCulture Grants are part of the broader CrossCulture Programme (CCP), which promotes professional exchange and collaboration between civil society organisations, media institutions, cultural bodies, and policy-focused organisations.
Unlike individual fellowships, the CrossCulture Grants are project-based and require joint applications from two organisations. These organisations work together to design and implement a collaborative activity that delivers measurable impact in their shared focus area.
The program encourages equal partnership, mutual learning, and long-term cooperation beyond the grant period.
Grant Value and What It Covers
Each selected project receives up to €4,500, which can be used to cover essential project-related costs, including:
- International travel expenses
- Accommodation during the project period
- Meals and daily subsistence
- Health insurance
- Visa and administrative costs
- Other justified project-related expenses
The funding is designed to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent meaningful collaboration between partner organisations.
Focus Areas for Funded Projects
Proposed projects must align with at least one of the following thematic focus areas:
- Policy and Society – governance, civic engagement, democracy, and public policy
- Media and Culture – journalism, cultural exchange, storytelling, and creative industries
- Human Rights and Peace – conflict prevention, social justice, inclusion, and reconciliation
- Sustainable Development and Climate Justice – environmental protection, climate action, and sustainability initiatives
Projects should demonstrate practical outcomes, knowledge sharing, and long-term relevance within these areas.
Who Can Apply?
The CrossCulture Grants are open to:
- Two legally registered organisations submitting a joint application
- Civil society organisations, NGOs, cultural institutions, media organisations, research bodies, and policy-focused institutions
- Organisations with staff members who will actively participate in the collaboration
- Partnerships involving organisations based in different countries
Both organisations must clearly define their roles, responsibilities, and expected outcomes within the project proposal.
Why Apply for the CrossCulture Grants?
Successful applicants benefit from more than just financial support. The program offers:
- International visibility and institutional credibility
- Stronger global partnerships and networks
- Capacity building for staff and organisations
- Exchange of best practices and innovative approaches
- Opportunities for long-term collaboration beyond the grant period
The CrossCulture Grants are ideal for organisations seeking to scale impact, strengthen institutional learning, and collaborate across borders in a meaningful way.
ALSO: International Climate Protection Fellowship (Germany)
In addition to the CrossCulture Grants, professionals working on environmental and climate-related issues may also consider the International Climate Protection Fellowship in Germany.
This prestigious fellowship offers:
- Monthly stipend of €2,500–€3,000
- 12-month fully funded fellowship
- Focus on climate protection, sustainability, and environmental policy
- Collaboration with German host institutions
This opportunity is ideal for experienced professionals looking to deepen their expertise while contributing to global climate solutions.
How to Apply for the CrossCulture Grants
Follow these steps to submit a successful application:
- Develop a Joint Project Idea
Identify a partner organisation and co-create a project aligned with the program’s focus areas. - Prepare a Strong Proposal
Clearly outline objectives, activities, expected outcomes, budget allocation, and partnership roles. - Visit the Official Application Page
Access full guidelines, eligibility criteria, and application forms on the official website:
👉 https://www.ifa.de/en/funding/ccp-synergy/ - Submit Before the Deadline
Ensure all required documents are submitted no later than 16 February 2026.
Applications are evaluated based on relevance, feasibility, collaboration quality, and expected impact.
The CrossCulture Grants 2026 provide a valuable opportunity for organisations to turn collaborative ideas into real-world impact. With €4,500 in funding, a focus on global challenges, and support from a reputable international institution, this program is ideal for teams committed to positive social, cultural, and environmental change.
If your organisation is ready to collaborate, exchange knowledge, and create sustainable solutions—this is an opportunity worth pursuing.