Open call for ideas for projects for Leuven European Capital of Culture 2030

We’re looking for 30 ideas for projects

Join us in thinking about projects to include in Leuven’s bid to become European Capital of Culture 2030. That’s still a long way off so it gives us the chance to take a broad view. We’re putting out an open call for 30 ideas for projects with the potential to be included in the bid book, which is the official application for the title of European Capital of Culture.

Projects should build on our narrative about making radically new connections. If you have an idea that can strengthen our candidacy you can send it to us via this open call.

Who can suggest a project?

Literally anyone. Projects can be proposed by individuals, associations, and professional organizations. Let us know whether you just want to propose an idea (that others can work on) or whether you want to carry out your project yourself.

What do we expect from your project?

• Your project will be compatible with the story of LOV and radically new connections. Read more about LOV and the criteria for radically new connections.
• Your project will be audience-orientated and doesn’t exclude anyone.
• Your idea is for an art, or cultural heritage, or community project that strives for social change in Leuven and/or the region. It goes beyond ordinary activities. Festivals, events, concerts, exhibitions, stage productions, games, and so on are all eligible. Infrastructure projects are not eligible.
• Your project envisions collaborations with local, supra-local or European partners. Your project preferably makes a link with other sectors.
• Your project takes place in Leuven or the East Brabant region.
• Your project takes the European dimension into account: it responds to European themes (such as sustainability, diversity and inclusion, and digitalization), or European values (such as democracy and citizenship, social justice, peace and tolerance), and has European relevance (through audience reach, partnerships, good practices, or through setting a good example).

What happens to your idea for a project?

• The Intendants make an initial selection. They ask for advice and feedback from the Dreamers2030.
• A team of European experts who have experience with European Capitals of Culture evaluate the projects.
• The winning city will be announced in in the autumn of 2025. If Leuven is awarded the title of European Capital of Culture the projects that are included in the bid book will receive support. The extent and form of that support will be discussed in subsequent phases in close consultation with the Intendants, as we approach 2030.