Social Design Award 2026: projects build connection
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Across Germany, numerous initiatives are working to strengthen communities and counter polarization. This year’s Social Design Award received around 300 submissions, with a jury selecting ten finalists for a public vote.
The projects address diverse challenges, from encouraging democratic participation to supporting marginalized groups. In Heckenbeck, a local initiative called “100% WIR” sent volunteers door-to-door before the 2025 federal election to discuss voting and politics with residents, aiming to boost participation and bridge divides.
ApplicAid, a nationwide organization, pairs talented students from disadvantaged backgrounds with mentors to help them navigate the scholarship application process. They’ve assisted over 1200 applicants, with a 42 percent success rate, and many successful applicants then become mentors themselves. Other projects focus on fostering dialogue and understanding. “The Unterhausdebatte” (“Lower House Debate”) stages discussions on controversial topics, asking participants to physically position themselves on “yes” or “no” sides to encourage deeper engagement and open minds.
Several initiatives address social inclusion directly. “Kulturklüngel” in Cologne offers guided tours showcasing the city’s diverse cultures, while “MentForMigra” in Düsseldorf provides mentorship to children and young people with migration or refugee backgrounds. “Plaudertelefon” in Stuttgart connects lonely individuals with volunteers for regular phone calls, and “Straßennachlass” creates a digital identity system for people experiencing homelessness, ensuring their information is available in emergencies. Finally, the “U100” podcast in Berlin preserves the memories of long-time residents, building connections between generations.
