Apply now: Civic Coding project consulting

Civil society organisations such as foundations, associations and charities can apply until 31 July 2026 to the federal Civic Coding initiative for free expert advice on AI projects. One condition is that the projects must be geared towards the public good.

Up to now, the development of artificial intelligence has mainly taken place in research and industry. Through the “Civic Coding – innovation network AI for the common good” initiative, the Federal Government is committed to ensuring that AI applications are designed in a socially responsible, sustainable and participatory manner through various events, flagship projects and funding programmes, thereby anchoring AI more firmly at the heart of society.

The “Civic Coding project consulting” funding is explicitly aimed at non-profit organisations. SMEs, start-ups and individuals may also apply for the programme, provided they are collaborating with a civil society organisation or municipal authority. Key selection criteria is that the AI projects submitted provide a clear and concretecontribution to the common good. They should also relate to at least one of the themes or areas of action of the three federal ministries that launched the Civic Coding initiative in 2021: the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (BMAS), the Federal Ministry for Education, Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMBFSFJ) and the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Action, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMUKN).

The Civic Coding project consulting programme comprisesup to 45 hours per project. The coaching takes place via one-to-one online sessions, and the content of the consultancy is tailored to the specific needs of each grant recipient. The thematic areas covered are artificial intelligence, data and data infrastructures, strategy and organisation, and AI literacy and governance.

Please note: the proposed projects may be at a very early stage or already underway. It is also possible to apply with several projects at the same time. In total, the coaching spans a period of approximately 12 weeks. The consultations will take place until 30 November 2026.

The Civic Coding initiative is one of the flagship projects being implemented as part of the Federal Digital Strategy. The initiative supports AI projects aimed at the common good in order to drive digital transformation in this area and to strengthen society, the environment and cooperation. (vdo)

Civic Coding project consulting: apply here by 31 July 2026