Organizations around the world working to promote intercultural dialogue, social inclusion, and community cohesion now have a major opportunity to expand their impact. The Intercultural Innovation Hub 2026 has officially opened its global call for applications, inviting non-profit organizations to apply for financial support, mentorship, and capacity-building opportunities that can help scale their innovative social initiatives.

The program is a collaboration between the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, BMW Group, and Accenture, bringing together global expertise from international organizations, the private sector, and civil society. Together, these partners aim to strengthen innovative projects that foster dialogue among cultures, tackle prejudice, and build inclusive societies worldwide.

If your organization is working to address social tensions, promote diversity, or use innovative methods to foster understanding across communities, this program could provide the resources and global network needed to amplify your impact.

What Is the Intercultural Innovation Hub?

The Intercultural Innovation Hub (IIH) is a global initiative designed to identify and support innovative civil society projects that promote dialogue and cooperation between cultures. The program focuses on scaling social innovations that contribute to more inclusive societies and help address global challenges related to cultural misunderstanding and social division.

The hub acts as a platform for collaboration, funding, and capacity building. It brings together social innovators, non-profit organizations, and global experts to develop scalable solutions to complex intercultural issues.

Since its creation, the program has supported organizations that tackle topics such as discrimination, extremism, inequality, and cultural exclusion. Selected organizations gain access not only to financial resources but also to strategic mentoring and an international network of changemakers.

Funding and Benefits for Selected Organizations

Organizations selected for the Intercultural Innovation Hub will receive a comprehensive package designed to help them expand and strengthen their projects.

1. Financial Grant

Each finalist organization will receive up to USD $20,000 to support the expansion of its social innovation project. The funding is specifically intended to scale initiatives and increase their impact.

This financial support can help organizations:

• Expand programs into new communities or regions

• Strengthen project implementation

• Increase beneficiary outreach

• Improve sustainability and long-term impact

However, the funding is not intended for general operational costs such as salaries or office rent. Instead, it supports activities directly related to expanding the selected project.

2. One-Year Capacity-Building Program

Selected organizations participate in a year-long development program that includes:

• Workshops and masterclasses

• Mentorship from experts in innovation and social impact

• Strategic guidance for scaling projects

• Customized organizational support

These training sessions are designed to strengthen leadership skills, project management capacity, and innovation strategies.

3. Access to a Global Network

Another major advantage of the Intercultural Innovation Hub is membership in a global community of changemakers.

Organizations will gain opportunities to:

• Connect with global experts and partners

• Participate in international events and workshops

• Collaborate with other organizations tackling similar challenges

• Share knowledge and best practices across regions

This network helps organizations build partnerships that extend far beyond the grant period.

Key Focus Areas for Projects

The program is looking for innovative projects already making an impact in communities. Projects should address intercultural challenges and promote inclusion.

Examples of eligible focus areas include:

1. Combating Xenophobia and Hate Speech – Projects addressing discrimination, racism, and hate speech through education, advocacy, or digital tools.

2. Preventing Violent Extremism – Initiatives designed to counter radicalization and promote peaceful dialogue across communities.

3. Promoting Gender Equality – Programs empowering women and promoting equal participation in society.

4. Social Inclusion Through Arts, Sports, and Culture – Projects using creative or cultural activities to build bridges between communities.

5. Building Inclusive and Cohesive Societies – Initiatives strengthening community resilience and collaboration across diverse populations.

6. Using Technology for Social Good – Innovative uses of technology, including artificial intelligence, to promote intercultural understanding and human well-being.

Who Can Apply?

The Intercultural Innovation Hub is open to non-profit organizations worldwide that are already implementing projects related to intercultural dialogue and inclusion.

Eligible Applicants

Organizations that may apply include:

• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)

• Charitable organizations

• Research or educational institutions

• Faith-based organizations

• Professional associations

• Foundations

• Indigenous organizations

• Labor unions

• Local or municipal government branches

Applications are not open to individuals. Applicants must apply through a registered non-profit organization.

Eligible Countries and Regions

This opportunity is open globally, meaning organizations from any continent or country can apply.

Eligible regions include:

• Africa

• Asia

• Europe

• North and South America

• Oceania

The program specifically encourages diverse participation to ensure global representation of intercultural initiatives.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Intercultural Innovation Hub 2026, organizations must meet several criteria.

Organizational Requirements

Applicants must:

1. Be registered as a non-profit organization.

2. Have been operational for at least two years prior to the application period.

3. Demonstrate a clear track record of implementing social impact projects.

4. Show commitment to diversity, inclusion, and intercultural dialogue.

Project Requirements

Projects submitted must:

• Already be actively implemented and not just an idea.

• Have demonstrated measurable impact during at least one year of operation.

• Show potential for expansion or replication in other contexts.

• Focus on intercultural dialogue and inclusive societies.

Projects that consist only of one-time events such as conferences or festivals are not eligible.

Selection Criteria

Applications are evaluated based on three major categories:

1. Project Quality

Reviewers will assess:

• Relevance to social challenges

• Innovation and originality

• Sustainability of the approach

• Measurable outcomes and impact

• Potential for replication in other contexts

2. Organizational Strength

Evaluation includes:

• Organizational structure and leadership

• Transparency and accountability

• Commitment to equality and diversity

• Realistic project work plan and budget

3. Application Quality

Applications must clearly communicate:

• Project objectives

• Impact strategy

• Implementation plan

• Expected results and scalability

Organizations must present a compelling narrative and clear evidence of impact to increase their chances of selection.

Application Process

Organizations must apply online through the Intercultural Innovation Hub application platform.

The process typically includes the following steps:

1. Submit an online application form.

2. Eligibility screening by program organizers.

3. Shortlisting of approximately 30 applicants.

4. Final selection of 10 organizations by an international jury.

Finalists will then be invited to join the Intercultural Innovation Hub program and participate in the capacity-building activities.

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Why Organizations Should Apply

The Intercultural Innovation Hub offers far more than financial support. It provides a unique opportunity for social impact organizations to scale their work internationally.

Benefits include:

• Access to funding for project expansion

• Strategic mentorship from global experts

• Capacity-building training

• Visibility and recognition on an international stage

• Opportunities to collaborate with global changemakers

For organizations dedicated to building inclusive societies and addressing cultural divisions, the program offers both resources and global exposure.

Deadline

15th April 2026 at 5:00 p.m. EDT (New York time). Late submissions will not be accepted.

The Intercultural Innovation Hub 2026 represents a powerful opportunity for non-profit organizations around the world to strengthen their social innovation initiatives. By combining funding, mentorship, and global collaboration, the program aims to accelerate impactful solutions that promote dialogue, inclusion, and mutual understanding across cultures.

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