The call aims to support the Ukrainian cultural sector by funding projects that connect Ukrainian cultural organizations with counterparts from other Creative Europe participating countries. This call is part of the EU’s comprehensive support plan for Ukraine, focusing on recovery and long-term sustainability of cultural resources. The support is intended to preserve cultural heritage, provide aid to artists and organizations, and foster their integration into the broader European cultural space. In the long run, this initiative will contribute to the social and cultural recovery of Ukraine, while enhancing international cultural cooperation that transcends borders and promotes lasting peace and unity.
Objectives and Priorities
The call is structured around three key thematic priorities:
TOPIC 1: Support for Ukrainian artists and cultural organizations (CREA-CULT-2025-COOP-UA-1) – Funding joint projects between Ukrainian artists and cultural organizations from EU countries to present their work and strengthen cooperation.
TOPIC 2: Providing access to culture and cultural heritage for Ukrainian citizens (CREA-CULT-2025-COOP-UA-2) – Funding activities focused on social inclusion and integration of refugees and displaced persons through cultural initiatives.
TOPIC 3: Preparing for the recovery of the Ukrainian cultural sector (CREA-CULT-2025-COOP-UA-3) – Capacity-building and networking activities aimed at supporting the cultural sector's recovery and strengthening social resilience.
Each project may be submitted under only one topic, and should address the specific priorities outlined for that topic.
TOPIC 1 & TOPIC 2
Support will be provided through third-party funding ("cascade grants") – at least 70% of the total EU grant must be redirected as financial support to third parties in Ukraine. This may include scholarships, grants to organizations, or similar forms of assistance and must be distributed through at least four public calls during the project implementation period.
Information and applicant support – Includes activities such as info sessions, assistance with application processes, and advisory services to increase accessibility of funding for Ukrainian artists and organizations.
TOPIC 3
Capacity building and networking – Project activities include workshops, seminars, studies, and missions aimed at strengthening the sector’s capacity, along with additional networking opportunities connecting Ukrainian artists with their peers in Creative Europe countries.
Budget and Financial Framework
The total budget for the call is €5 million, divided across three topics:
- TOPIC 1: Up to €2 million in EU support
- TOPIC 2: Up to €2 million in EU support
- TOPIC 3: Up to €1 million in EU support
Each project may receive up to 90% of eligible costs covered by the EU grant, while the remaining 10% must be provided by the applicants. The project duration is 36 months.
Eligible Applicants
- The consortium must include at least two organizations, one from Ukraine and the other from a Creative Europe participating country.
- Applicants must be legal entities (private or public); individuals are not eligible, except for self-employed persons.
- Organizations in the consortium must demonstrate the financial and operational capacity to carry out the project.
Expected Impacts
- Strengthening cultural cooperation between Ukraine and Creative Europe countries by enabling Ukrainian organizations to connect with international partners, share knowledge, and build long-term partnerships.
- Ensuring access to culture and the preservation of cultural heritage for Ukrainians, including displaced persons and refugees in EU countries. Culture will serve as a tool for social cohesion and mental health support.
- Preparing the cultural sector for post-war recovery and reconstruction through capacity-building, networking, and support for innovation. Projects funded under this call are expected to contribute to Ukraine’s social and economic resilience, leveraging culture to foster a more inclusive and resilient society.
How to Prepare and Submit Proposals
- Proposals must be prepared in line with the criteria and conditions set out in the call document: Support to the Ukrainian Cultural and Creative Sectors (CREA-CULT-2025-COOP-UA), Version 1.0, 30 October. You can find the call document here
Applications must be submitted electronically through the Funding & Tenders Opportunities Portal (F&TP). You can access the F&TP here