Implementation phase from 2027

How should cultural institutions be working in ten years’ time? What do they need to change to remain relevant, resilient and accessible?

These are the guiding questions as the programme “Übermorgen – New Models for Cultural Institutions”, run by the German Federal Cultural Foundation, enters its second funding phase in 2027. The aim is for cultural institutions to develop viable future models with the support of cultural policy-makers and public administration, and to embed them for the long term. A total of ten million euros is available for this purpose.

Funding goes to approaches that challenge the status quo, try out new paths and rethink cultural institutions: far-reaching strategic concepts that drive institutional transformation and serve as an example for other cultural institutions. These might include new forms of leadership and collaboration, new financing models, cross-disciplinary cooperation, or stronger collaboration with civil society. The funded institutions tackle key challenges facing cultural institutions and share their experience with other institutions.

From future-thinking to lived transformation
Funding of between €300,000 and €600,000 per project (running from 2027 to 2030) – up to €1 million in total for consortium projects – covers the cost of the transformation process and the transition to new structures. Funded institutions must credibly demonstrate how they will sustain their project once funding ends, without additional resources.

Sharing responsibility: knowledge transfer and partners
Knowledge transfer is a central element of the programme. Every funded institution takes on responsibility as a model project, passing on its experience and knowledge to other cultural institutions. This creates lasting networks, concrete forms of cooperation and a practice-oriented exchange of experience and learning.

Alongside this, the programme is developing formats for knowledge transfer and discussion together with sector-specific associations. An international European congress in 2029 builds on the experience of the orientation phase’s travel programme and reflects on the results in a European context. Cooperation with the Association of German Cities also continues.

Political backing and co-financing required
Funding is conditional on active support from policy-makers and public administration, documented through statements or declarations. The required co-financing of 20 per cent of the requested funding can be made up of own resources or secured third-party funds, enabling municipalities subject to budget consolidation requirements to apply as well.

Implementation phase: timeline
The funding guidelines have been published; the application deadline for the implementation phase is 12 February 2027 at 12:00 noon CET. The project start date is planned for July 2027.