From reception to creation – putting participation into practice
How can we actively shape our society? How can ideas become real projects that make democratic participation visible and accessible?
We invite individuals and groups to submit creative project ideas that strengthen democracy through social participation. We are looking for activities that show that democratic engagement is not limited to elections or party politics, but can also be experienced in everyday life.
Projects should encourage people to take action, implement an idea, and document it so that others can be inspired to adapt similar approaches in their own context. Projects may focus on local issues or include international perspectives. There are no limits to creativity.
Funding
The four most convincing project concepts will be selected by an internal jury and will each receive €400 in financial support for implementation. The funding is provided within the framework of the Fit4Democracy programme.
Who can participate?
Individuals or groups of all ages from the Danube region and other European countries are welcome to apply.
Content focus
Project ideas should show how democracy can be practised in everyday life. Relevant are projects that address at least one of the following aspects:
- Communication and co-determination
- Dialogue, debate culture, and perspective-taking
- Anti-discrimination, diversity, and tolerance
- Community spirit, solidarity, and cohesion
Possible formats include discussion rounds, workshops, storytelling cafés, participatory activities, games, videos, improvisational theatre, or actions in public space.
Looking for inspiration? Explore the Fit4Democracy Toolbox:
https://fit4democracy.eu/toolbox/
How to apply
Please submit your project idea and a short implementation plan in English as a presentation by 24 April 2026.
Email: democracy@ileu.net
Subject: DEMOCRACY2LIVE – Submission – [Project Name]
What should the presentation include?
Please include the following:
- Title and team (name/group, location/region, contact details)
- Initial situation / problem
- Objectives
- Target group(s)
- Process and activities
- Relevance to democracy
- Timeline
- Budget plan for the €400
- Expected impact
- Documentation plan
Timeline
- Submission deadline: 24 April 2026
- Jury selection and feedback: 30 April 2026
- Project implementation: until 20 June 2026
- Presentation of results: 10 July 2026 at the Danube Festival and on the Fit4Democracy / ILEU websites
Selection criteria
The jury will assess the proposals based on:
- Feasibility within the given timeframe and budget
- Relevance to democracy
- Impact on community and cohesion
- Creativity and participant engagement
- Inclusion and accessibility
- Sustainability and transferability
Documentation requirement
Selected project teams are expected to document their project implementation.
Please provide:
- a short video (1–3 minutes)
- a short written summary (5–10 lines) answering:
- What went well?
- What did you learn?
The video should show that the project took place and reflect impressions and feedback from participants.
Data protection
Please make sure that all people appearing in the video have given their consent. For minors, parental or legal guardian consent is required.
Contact
ILEU e. V. – DEMOCRACY2LIVE / Fit4Democracy
Email: democracy@ileu.net
Phone: +49 (0) 731 379 951 66