Short Description

Across Europe, communities are coming together to tackle pressing challenges—from social isolation and disinformation to climate change, risks to our mental health, polarisation, and the evolving role of AI technologies. An inclusive and sustainable future is possible when we work in solidarity, listening to and learning from the creative solutions emerging locally.
Libraries are at the heart of this transformation. As safe spaces open to all, they provide access to reliable knowledge. Libraries empower residents to voice their concerns and find effective solutions to local challenges. Now more than ever, libraries are evolving into hubs of community engagement, where people can collaborate, build deep-rooted connections, and strengthen democracy from the ground up.

Since 2020, 96 libraries and communities from 26 countries have participated in The Europe Challenge, implementing vital projects that have benefited over 150,000 Europeans of all ages and walks of life. 

Eligibility

  • The application form must be completed in English, with no question left unanswered.
  • Applicants must indicate one main partner to receive any funding that was applied for and awarded. This is normally the library, but if this is not feasible, the community group can be designated as the main partner.
  • Only libraries and community groups based in the following countries can apply:
    A Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan
    B Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria
    C Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic
    D Denmark
    E Estonia
    F Finland, France
    G Georgia, Germany, Greece
    H Hungary
    I Iceland, Ireland, Italy
    K Kosovo
    L Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg
    M Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro
    N The Netherlands, Northern Macedonia, Norway
    P Poland, Portugal
    R Romania
    S San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland
    T Turkey
    U Ukraine, the United Kingdom
  • At least one of the co-applicants must be registered as a legal entity. Both co-applicants must be represented by individuals who are at least 18 years old.
  • Proposals involving political parties or organisations affiliated with political parties (unions, lobby groups, campaign funders etc.) as associate partners are not eligible.
  • Applicants are expected to implement fair and sociable working conditions and transparent governance in relation to project staff, freelancers, volunteers, and service providers.
  • A working proficiency in English is required to fully participate in the programme. Some assistance can be provided upon request to facilitate attendance at live meetings. For the online learning exchanges, however, Challenge teams are expected to arrange interpretive services themselves, if needed.
  • Neither the library nor the community of choice has participated in previous editions of The Europe Challenge programme.

How to Apply

Online Application

Program Benefits & Awards

  • Funding of up to EUR 10.000 to implement a proposed project (optional).
  • A series of online and in-person workshops and mentoring sessions.
  • Additional peer-to-peer exchange opportunities, networking, and travel.

Entry Fee

None

Location

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Timeline

  • Application Deadline: 29 May 2025

Website Link: https://theeuropechallenge.eu/news/apply-now-2025/

FundNetworkingTravel costsWorkshop