Baltic Sea Region Cultural Pearls 2027 – Call for applications opens soon!

What is the BSR Cultural Pearls title?

BSR Cultural Pearls is a title for small and medium size towns and cities that recognizes outstanding culture-driven social resilience work of municipalities. Local authorities from the Baltic Sea Region – especially those from less central areas – are invited to join this transformative journey and apply.

How does it work?

The journey to becoming a Cultural Pearl unfolds in stages. When the call for application opens on 16 March 2026, interested cities can submit an online application outlining their motivation to become a Cultural Pearl. A screening of applications results in a shortlist of candidates who enter a phase of action plan development, creating Culture and Resilience Action Plans with access to specialised tools, webinars, and guidance. An international jury then selects the best plans to award the BSR Cultural Pearl title. Title recipients will embark on a one-year title year during which time their action plan is implemented.

Why apply?

• Stronger community connections: When citizens are involved in decision-making and cultural activities, they feel more connected to their community. This sense of belonging and pride helps bring people together and promotes mutual trust.
• Cooperation: The focus on culture develops cooperation between different groups—citizens, local organizations, and decision-makers—leading to better relationships and a more connected community.
• Better decision-making: The process of developing a Culture and Resilience Action Plan with the help of the BSR Cultural Pearls Network, helps decision-makers understand better what is needed to improve to make the community stronger and more united and how to involve the people in coming up with their ideas and participate.
• Recognition and visibility: Being awarded the BSR Cultural Pearls title gives your city greater visibility, both nationally and internationally and can increase pride among citizens.
• Networking and learning opportunities: As part of the BSR Cultural Pearls Network, your municipality can connect with other like-minded communities. This network offers valuable learning opportunities, knowledge exchange, and support to continue growing socially resilient communities.

Deadlines

Opening of the Call for Applications: 16 March 2026

Submission of the Pre-Selection Application: 30 April 2026, 23:59 CET.

Submission of the Culture and Resilience Action Plan: 16 October 2026, 23:59 CET

More information can be found here: About – BSR Cultural Pearls

For questions about the application, please contact the National Contact Point, which you can find here: Contact – BSR Cultural Pearls

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