1. What is the Intercultural Innovation Award?

The Intercultural Innovation Award is a partnership between the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) and the BMW Group that aims to select and support the most innovative grassroots projects that encourage intercultural dialogue and cooperation around the world. Projects are selected through a competitive selection process. Winners receive a monetary grant. Furthermore, what is especially unique about the Award is that winners receive a one-year customized support package to help them grow and expand to other contexts.

2. Why should I apply?

Because your organization considers that promoting intercultural understanding and cooperation is key in today’s world; because your project has proven successful and you want to share it with the world; because you lack the connections and capacity to bring your project to the next level.

3. How can I apply?

You can apply in three ways: online, by email or by ordinary mail. For more information see www.interculturalinnovation.org/the-award/

4. What is the selection process?

The detailed selection process is outlined in the application guidelines. Please read it carefully and do not hesitate to contact us if you have any question.

5. Is the Intercultural Innovation Award open to organizations from all countries?

Yes. The Award is open to all applicants around the world.

6. Does the Intercultural Innovation Award provide general or core funding (e.g. salaries, rent, etc. not specific to a project) to winner organizations?

No, the monetary grant of the Award only supports expenses needed to expand the range of action of the project and replicate them in other contexts.

7. My organization applied to the Intercultural Innovation Award, can I apply again in the nextyear?

Yes. You can submit your application once the new process is open.

8. My organization applied to a previous edition of the UNAOC Marketplace of Ideas, can I apply for the Intercultural Innovation Award?

Yes. You can submit your application for the Award.

9. My organization applied to a previous edition of the BMW Group Award, can I apply for the Intercultural Innovation Award?

Yes. You can submit your application for the Award.

10. Can I submit my application in a language other than English?

No. We regret that applications are only accepted in English. The reason is that English is the only common language among members of the Jury. We encourage you to plan ahead of time. You can get assistance from an English-speaking friend, colleague or organization that may review your application.

11. When is the due date to apply?

The deadline for applications is now closed. You can get updates about the next competition by subscribing to receive updates. You will find a link in the home page.

12. Shall I expect an acknowledgement of my application?

Yes. Online applicants will receive an automated message. Applicants by email will receive a response acknowledging their application within a week of their submission. If you do not receive it, please contact us at award@interculturalinnovation.org. If you apply by ordinary mail, please allow 30 days for the acknowledgement to arrive. Another reason to apply early!

13. I missed the deadline, can I still apply?

As a principle of fairness to other applicants, late submissions will not be considered.

14. I am a freelancer, am I eligible to apply?

Individuals cannot apply. However, if you work within a non-for-profit, your organization can apply.

15. I am an LLC, am I eligible apply?

A Limited Liability Company or an LLC cannot apply. However, if your company is associated with a non-for-profit (university, foundation, etc) or it has a non-for-profit branch (i.e. some LLCs do social work through a foundation), you would be eligible to apply.

16. How is the monetary grant given to my organization?

Monetary grants are split in three instalments throughout the year.

17. What happens if my organization is selected a winner?

You will be contacted by the UNAOC and the BMW Group and invited to the Award Ceremony. In Vienna, an in depth questionnaire and interview will determine the specific needs for replication and expansion of your project. The UNAOC and the BMW Group will work hand in hand with your organization to help you grow and adapt your program in other contexts.

18. What happens if my organization is selected between the 6th to 10th positions?

Finalist organizations will become part of the WIFI. They will be given an honorable mention and visibility through our website. Additionally, they may receive occasional support, consisting of letters of recommendation, information about grants, invitations to events, etc.

19. Will I be notified of my status?

Yes. All applicants (selected and non-selected) will be notified at the time specified in the application guidelines.

20. What is expected from me if I am selected a winner?

The UNAOC and the BMW group are looking for committed organizations managed by entrepreneurial individuals! We want our winners to be excited about the process ahead, willing to actively engage in a process of expansion. Furthermore, your organization is expected to attend several events; provide some documents throughout the year (work plan, progress report and final report); and participate in a mid-term and final evaluation.