Call for Proposals
The project “Heritage is our brand”, funded by the European Union and implemented by DMO Albania and EU Policy Hub, announces the call for applications for the small grants scheme. This call for applications invites creative and cultural initiatives that transform intangible cultural heritage into artistic and visual expressions using contemporary methods. Proposals should draw inspiration from the cultural stories developed by the project “Heritage is our brand” which can be found at this link: Stories – Albania Heritage
Applicants are encouraged not only to creatively transform these cultural narratives into works of art or visual forms, but also to engage the public in meaningful ways, fostering awareness, appreciation, and critical reflection on intangible heritage in contemporary society. The small grants scheme is designed to empower and support a diverse group of actors who are actively engaged in the field of cultural heritage. This call is addressed to:
- Young artists, creators, and cultural practitioners in producing new works that contribute to a broader understanding of intangible heritage and identity;
- Experts in the field of culture, including historians, artists, educators, curators, researchers, and cultural managers with in-depth knowledge of cultural heritage;
- Civil society organisations (CSOs) and cultural associations operating in the field of cultural heritage and playing a key role in promoting community-based cultural initiatives.
Please refer to the call documentation package as follows:
INFO SESSIONS
DMO Albania and EU Policy Hub launch the small grants scheme within the framework of the project “Heritage is our Brand”, funded by the European Union.
This call for applications invites creative and cultural initiatives that transform intangible cultural heritage into artistic and visual expressions using contemporary methods. Proposals should draw inspiration from the cultural stories developed by the project “Heritage is our Brand”. Applicants are encouraged not only to creatively reinterpret these cultural narratives into artworks or visual forms, but also to meaningfully engage the public, fostering awareness, appreciation, and critical reflection on intangible heritage.
The call is addressed to individuals and teams of young artists, cultural creators, professionals, experts in the field of culture, including historians, artists, teachers, curators, researchers, and cultural managers with experience in cultural heritage, as well as civil society organisations that play a key role in promoting community-based cultural initiatives.
Three informational sessions will be organized in Tirana, Shkodër, and Korçë.
The first session will be held at the premises of Tirana Times Bookstore, Tiranë, on 18 September 2025..
The second session at 24 Shtator at 11:00 AM at the Atelie Youth Center, Shkoder
The third session at 30 Shtator, at 12:30 PM at the Digital Art Gallery, Korçë
Please confirm your participation in these sessions at info@dmoalbania.al
Tirana, September 18
Shkodër, September 24
Korçë, September 30
Questions & Answers
Who can apply?
Eligible applicants are:
- Young artists and creators
- Experts in the field of culture (historians, curators, researchers, cultural managers)
- Civil society organisations and cultural associations active in the field of cultural heritage
Can I apply individually or only in cooperation with an organisation?
Yes, individuals (artists, creators, experts) may apply on their own. Civil society organisations and cultural associations are also eligible.
Can I submit more than one application?
No, each applicant may benefit from only one grant under this call.
Can I implement my project outside Albania?
No, activities must take place within the territory of Albania and include local communities.
Is it mandatory to use the stories published on the “Albania Heritage” platform?
Yes, projects must be inspired by the stories documented on this platform. However, they may be rewritten, reinterpreted, and transformed into new artistic forms.
How should the application be submitted?
Applications must be submitted through this link Aplikim për propozime, including all required documents (application form, budget, portfolio/CV, declaration, ID or NIPT).
In what language should the application be submitted?
Application documents must be in Albanian. If there are materials in English (e.g., CV or portfolio), they may be attached in English.
When is the deadline for applications?
The deadline is 15 October 2025, at 23:59.
What is the maximum funding per project?
Each project may receive up to €4,000 (excluding VAT), covering up to 100% of eligible costs.
Is co-financing required?
No, it is not mandatory. However, financial or in-kind contributions (such as spaces, services, staff) are encouraged to strengthen the project’s sustainability.
Which activities are eligible?
- Theater and music performances, contemporary dance
- Art installations, murals, mosaics
- Documentaries, short films, animations
- Video art, experimental media
- Graphic novels and applied design
How long can the project last?
Projects must start in December 2025 and be completed by June 2026 (maximum 6 months).
What happens if my project does not finish within the 6-month deadline?
Projects must be completed within the set timeframe; otherwise, penalties may apply and funding may be withdrawn.
What is not funded?
- Expenses unrelated to the project
- Capital equipment, political or religious activities
- Unforeseen, general, or retroactive costs
- Recoverable taxes and VAT
Which evaluation criteria are in place?
- Technical proposal (50%): clarity, originality, innovation, alignment with objectives, feasibility
- Previous experience (20%)
- Budget and cost-effectiveness (20%)
- Additional elements such as networking, youth involvement, multiplier effect (10%)
How is the grant paid?
- 70% of the amount is disbursed in advance after contract signature
- 30% is paid after submission and approval of the narrative and financial reports (by 31 August 2026)
What kind of reports must be submitted during the project?
- Narrative report on project progress
- Financial report with invoices and supporting documents
Are there penalties if communication and visibility requirements are not respected?
Yes, beneficiaries must comply with EU communication and visibility guidelines. Failure to include the appropriate logos may affect the evaluation and approval of final reporting.
Where can additional questions be addressed?
Questions may be sent 01 October 2025 to info@dmoalbania.al. Answers will be published on the official DMO Albania website.
Aplikimet per grante jane mbyllur.
