Insider tipps

Ask questions when in doubt

Contact the team of Fonds Soziokultur with questions about applications, accounting, or budgeting.
Don’t hesitate to ask again – most issues can be quickly resolved that way.

Keep expectations realistic

Work with the resources you have and accept that not everything can be implemented perfectly.
Encourage a healthy attitude toward mistakes – they’re part of the learning process.

See the process as a learning experience

U25 projects are a great chance for young people to try new things and learn by doing.
Even when things don’t go as planned, the experience you gain is valuable for the future.

Be brave and just do it

A U25 project gives you the opportunity to turn first ideas into action. Dare to try out bold ideas.
With commitment, openness, and strong connections, even a small budget can make a big impact.

Plan early

Start planning and organizing as early as possible to avoid stress.
Create realistic timelines and allow for delays (e.g. for paperwork, coordination, promotion).

Clearly define your idea

Set clear project goals and think about what exactly you want to achieve.
Only plan what you can realistically carry out with your available resources. Save extra ideas for future applications.

Assign roles and define team structure

Distribute responsibilities (e.g. finances, communication, program design).
Play to individual strengths: Who enjoys writing? Who has experience with social media? Who can support artists or facilitators?
Define roles (e.g. team lead) and establish clear communication channels so everyone stays up to date.

Build partnerships and networks

Reach out to professional organizations, local institutions, or clubs that can provide resources or knowledge.
Don’t hesitate to send emails or approach people directly – many connections come from personal contact.

Consider safe space and target group

Think about how to create a safe, discrimination-free environment where participants can feel comfortable and express themselves (e.g. neutral locations, respecting needs, avoiding judgment).
Clarify from the start who your target group is and what their needs are (e.g. accessibility, low-threshold access).

Prepare financial planning

Plan your budget realistically and include a buffer.
Organize your documents clearly and agree on how to handle spending and receipts (e.g. use a separate account).
Collect and sort receipts from the beginning to avoid chaos later.

Regular team meetings and clear communication

Continually share updates, challenges, and changes.
WhatsApp groups often aren’t enough – use centralized tools, cloud folders, or project management platforms.
Take minutes during meetings so no one misses anything important.

Stay flexible

Projects rarely go exactly as planned. New challenges require adjustments.
Be open to creative solutions and compromises – as long as the main goal remains clear.

Leadership and moderation

Be clear about who is guiding the group (e.g. rehearsal lead, workshop facilitator).
Have methods ready to bring discussions back on track when needed.
Stick to time limits during sessions (e.g. detailed agendas, shared deadlines).

Involve participants actively

Create space for feedback and their own ideas (e.g. check-in and check-out rounds).
Make workshops interactive and accessible, explain technical terms, use practical activities.
Expect high fluctuation: for fixed dates, plan for double or triple casting of roles if needed.

Document and stay organized

Record the project process regularly (photos, notes, video recordings).
Update financial tracking continuously (record expenses, file receipts).
If unsure during the project, feel free to contact Fonds Soziokultur for support.

Allow yourself to enjoy your own project

Evaluation and feedback

Final accounting and closure

Set aside enough time for final reporting (financial documentation, receipts).
Clearly assign who is responsible for each task (e.g. submitting materials to the fund).
If needed, prepare a final presentation or wrap-up event.

Maintain your network