For many young people, their world is shaped not only by school or home, but also by the community to which they belong. It is there that they find role models, build self-confidence and discover new opportunities for their future. Organisations that emerge from these communities play an important role in this. Yet a large proportion of these organisations are unable to find funding, and vice versa. With the new ‘Power of Community’ incentive scheme, Fonds 21 aims to change this.
Not every young person grows up with a large network, relatable role models or plenty of opportunities to gain new experiences. A community can therefore be of great significance. Communities provide a place where young people can develop, learn new skills and meet others who inspire them. It is precisely this strength that regularly gives rise to ideas and projects that get young people moving.
Through ‘Power of Community’, Fonds 21 is calling on community-based civil society organisations, creative collectives and socio-cultural platforms to submit proposals in which young people aged between 12 and 30 contribute ideas, get involved and have a say in decision-making.
“For many young people, communities are places where they discover new perspectives, meet role models and are given the space to develop. This can be particularly significant for young people who cannot always rely on a large support network or relatable role models in their local area. Through Power of Community, we aim to support initiatives by organisations that fulfil this role for young people.” Henk Christophersen, Managing Director of Fonds 21.
Developed from real-world experience
Power of Community builds on Fonds 21’s previous experience with organisations that are firmly rooted in their own communities. In doing so, the fund recognised how valuable these initiatives are for young people, but also that they do not always automatically secure funding.
The Future Collective, Fonds 21’s youth council, also played an important role in developing the scheme. Drawing on their own experiences, they emphasised the importance of communities as places where young people can meet, inspire and support one another.
Room for experimentation and innovation
Good ideas often emerge from within the community itself. With ‘Power of Community’, organisations are given the opportunity to explore, trial and further develop these ideas. These might include new programmes, meeting places, workshops, digital platforms or other initiatives that bring young people together and give them an active role within their community.
The scheme is open to organisations from across the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Particular attention is paid to young people from culturally diverse and under-represented communities.
Organisations may apply for a grant of between €10,000 and €25,000. Fonds 21 will contribute up to 50 per cent of the total budget. Applications may be submitted until 20 September 2026.
About Fund 21
Fonds 21 is the gateway to imagination. Each year, the fund invests €12 million in projects that show young people things they have not yet been able to imagine. Through art, culture, education and social engagement, Fonds 21 creates space for imagination, particularly where systems, expectations and circumstances limit that space. Young people are not the target audience here, but the objective.
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