Calling all libraries and community leaders in Europe!

We’re excited to launch the 2025/26 edition of The Europe Challenge, the programme that empowers libraries and their communities to tackle today’s most pressing social, digital, and climate challenges through collaboration across European borders. 

A better, safer, more sustainable future starts in your library

Libraries have always been the backbone of communities—providing access to reliable knowledge, empowering individuals to voice their concerns, and building lasting connections. Now more than ever, libraries are evolving into dynamic hubs of community engagement, where people come together to strengthen democracy from the ground up.

That’s why we believe libraries have the power to address any of today’s most urgent challenges—whether it’s combating social isolation, fighting disinformation, addressing climate change, supporting our mental health, bridging divides, or navigating the evolving role of AI. 

Opportunities for libraries and community groups

The Europe Challenge 2025/26 offers participating libraries and community groups the following opportunities:

• 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.

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. 

Priority areas for 2025/26

For The Europe Challenge 2025/26, we’re seeking initiatives that address one of Europe’s key transitions: social, digital, and green. We are looking for creative ideas from libraries and community groups that contribute to building a more inclusive, connected, and sustainable Europe.

How to apply

Applications are now open! Submit your project proposals by Thursday 29 May 2025, 12.00 CEST.

For more details on the eligibility and selection criteria, a complete outline of the programme, and more, please carefully consult the below documents. 

Questions about the open call?

Any questions not covered in the FAQ document or not already answered in this Q&A sheet?

You can submit them through our Q&A Form from Thursday, 10 April 2025, 9.00 CEST, until Thursday, 15 May 2025, 12.00 (noon) CEST.

Responses will be updated regularly within 3 working days in the Q&A sheet. Please bookmark it for future reference!

If your question is very specific, please contact The Europe Challenge team at theeuropechallenge@culturalfoundation.eu. Please note that due to a high volume of emails, response times may vary.

Spread the word! 

Not a librarian or a community member, but still want to help? You can make a difference by spreading the word about The Europe Challenge! Share our Comms pack with your network, which includes all the information you need—general details about the programme, ready-made social media posts, and more to help amplify this exciting opportunity.

Partners

The Europe Challenge 2025/26 is initiated by the European Cultural Foundation. 

The 2025/26 edition is kindly supported by public funding through Arts Council England, Fondazione Cariplo, and the Scottish Library and Information Council.