Applications open for “Norden 0–30” Funding Programme

The Norden 0–30 Programme provides funding for projects involving young people (up to age 30) across the Nordic region, focusing on cultural, social, and political engagement. Grants range from €10,000 to €50,000, depending on cross-country collaboration. The programme promotes youth participation, democratic engagement, and regional cooperation.

What is the Norden 0–30 Programme?

The Norden 0–30 Programme is a funding initiative that supports youth-led and youth-focused projects in the Nordic region. It encourages young people to actively participate in planning, implementation, and evaluation of initiatives related to:

• Culture

• Society

• Politics

The programme aims to strengthen youth voice, influence, and civic engagement while building cross-border collaboration.

Key Programme Details

Funding Amount

• Up to €10,000 for projects involving 2 Nordic countries

• Up to €50,000 for projects involving 3 or more Nordic countries

Co-Funding Requirement

• Minimum 15% of total budget must come from other sources

• Norden funding must not exceed 85% of total project cost

Project Start Timeline

• Projects typically begin ~8 weeks after the application deadline

Programme Management

• Managed by the Nordic Committee for Children and Young People

• Under the Nordic Council of Ministers

• Administered by Nordic Culture Point

Programme Objectives

The programme focuses on empowering youth through:

1. Active Participation

• Young people must be involved in decision-making and execution

2. Democratic Engagement

• Encourages participation in civic and political processes

3. Skills Development

• Builds leadership, collaboration, and project management skills

4. Regional Cooperation

• Strengthens partnerships across Nordic countries and regions

What Types of Projects Are Supported?

Eligible Project Themes

• Cultural initiatives (arts, heritage, creative expression)

• Social projects (community development, inclusion)

• Political engagement (youth democracy, advocacy, dialogue)

Key Requirements

• Projects must actively involve children and young people (0–30 years)

• Youth must participate in planning, implementation, and evaluation

• Projects must demonstrate cross-border collaboration

Geographic & Partnership Requirements

Minimum Collaboration Criteria

For 2-Country Projects

• Must include at least one partner from:

  • Greenland

  • Iceland

  • Faroe Islands

  • Åland Islands

For 3-Country Projects

• Must include at least three Nordic countries, such as:

  • Denmark

  • Finland

  • Norway

  • Sweden

Additional Cooperation Encouraged

• North Calotte region

• Baltic countries:

  • Estonia

  • Latvia

  • Lithuania

Who is Eligible?

Eligible Applicants

• Organisations

• Municipalities

• Institutions

• Associations

• Networks

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be registered in an eligible Nordic country

• Have a valid registration number

• Work with or represent children and young people

Note: Applicants do not need to be young themselves but must demonstrate experience in youth engagement.

Why This Programme Matters

The Norden 0–30 Programme plays a critical role in:

• Strengthening youth participation in democracy

• Promoting cross-cultural collaboration

• Empowering young people to influence social and political systems

• Building a more inclusive and engaged Nordic society

It ensures that young voices are not only heard but actively shape regional development.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

• Ensure your organisation meets all criteria

• Verify partnership requirements across countries

Step 2: Build a Partnership

• Identify partners in eligible Nordic countries

• Ensure compliance with 2-country or 3-country rules

Step 3: Design the Project

• Define clear objectives and outcomes

• Ensure strong youth participation at all stages

Step 4: Prepare the Budget

• Use the mandatory budget template

• Include:

  • External funding (minimum 15%)

  • In-kind contributions (e.g., volunteer work)

• Ensure total funding does not exceed 85% from Nordic sources

Step 5: Submit Application

• Complete the official application form

• Attach all required documents

Step 6: Wait for Approval

• Projects can start approximately 8 weeks after the deadline

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Not meeting cross-country partnership requirements

• ❌ Weak or unclear youth participation plan

• ❌ Missing the 15% co-funding requirement

• ❌ Incorrect or incomplete budget format

• ❌ Over-reliance on Nordic funding (exceeding 85%)

Pro Tips

• ✔ Involve young people from the very beginning

• ✔ Highlight impact on youth empowerment and democracy

• ✔ Build strong, diverse partnerships

• ✔ Clearly document all financial contributions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can benefit from this programme?

Children and young people aged 0–30 years across the Nordic region.

2. Do applicants need to be young?

No, but they must work with or represent young people.

3. What is the maximum funding available?

Up to €50,000 for projects involving three or more countries.

4. Is co-funding required?

Yes, at least 15% of the project budget must come from other sources.

5. Can projects involve non-Nordic countries?

Yes, cooperation with regions like the Baltic states is encouraged, but Nordic partnership requirements must still be met.

6. When can funded projects start?

Approximately 8 weeks after the application deadline.

7. What type of costs can be included?

Both financial and in-kind contributions such as volunteer work can be included in the budget.

Conclusion

The Norden 0–30 Programme is a powerful funding opportunity for organisations working with young people in the Nordic region. By supporting cross-border collaboration, youth participation, and democratic engagement, it helps build a generation of active, skilled, and socially responsible citizens. Organisations that design inclusive, well-structured, and youth-driven projects stand the best chance of securing funding and creating lasting impact.