This Open Call aims to support ambitious, innovative and collaborative cultural projects that strengthen the European Dimension, promote artistic excellence, encourage citizen participation and contribute to the long-term cultural development of Skopje and North Macedonia.
Projects should contribute to one or more of the five programme strands of Skopje 2028:
- Art4Hope
- Togetherness
- rECOvering
- CreARTing
- Heritage
Available Funding
Applicants may apply under one of the following funding categories:
Small Scale Projects
EUR 3,000 – EUR 9,999
Designed for smaller artistic, community and participatory initiatives with a strong local impact.
Mid Scale Projects
EUR 10,000 – EUR 24,999
Supporting collaborative projects with wider public engagement, stronger organisational capacity and international cooperation.
Large Scale Projects
EUR 25,000 – EUR 150,000
Supporting major cultural projects of strategic importance for the Skopje 2028 programme.
Large Scale Projects will be selected through a two-stage application procedure:
Stage 1 – Concept Note
Applicants submit a concise project concept outlining the artistic vision, European Dimension and expected impact. Only shortlisted Concept Notes will be invited to continue.
Stage 2 – Full Application
The Evaluation Committee will invite shortlisted candidates to prepare and submit a comprehensive full application. As part of the full application, candidates will have the opportunity to further develop, strengthen, and clarify their initial proposals and provide a more complete and concrete application before the final evaluation is conducted.
Indicative Timeline
Publication of the Open Call
19 August 2026
Small Scale & Mid Scale Projects
Submission deadline: 60 calendar days after publication
Evaluation: 30 calendar days
Notification and contracting immediately after completion of the evaluation.
Large Scale Projects
Stage 1 – Concept Note
Submission deadline: 45 calendar days after publication
Evaluation: 30 calendar days
Invitation to Stage 2
Shortlisted applicants will receive:
an invitation to submit a Full Application;
Stage 2 – Full Application
Submission deadline: 45 calendar days after the invitation.
Final Evaluation
Final funding decision within 30 calendar days after submission of the Full Application.
What they Are Looking For
The Foundation seeks projects that: demonstrate artistic excellence; strengthen the European Dimension; promote international cultural cooperation; engage citizens and communities; encourage participation and inclusion; contribute to sustainability and long-term legacy; develop new audiences;
foster innovation and creativity; reinforce the cultural identity and international visibility of Skopje.
Projects are expected to reflect the values and ambitions of the European Capital of Culture initiative while creating meaningful cultural impact for local communities and European audiences.
Transparent Evaluation
All applications will undergo an independent evaluation process based on published criteria. The evaluation includes: Administrative Verification; Eligibility Assessment; Independent Expert Evaluation; Budget Assessment;
How to Apply
Applications must be prepared using the official Application Package published together with this Open Call.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to read the Open Call Guidelines for Project Proposals before preparing their applications.
Other info here.
