Open Call for Project Proposals: Skopje 2028

Organisation: Foundation “European Capital of Culture – Skopje 2028”
Location: Skopje, North Macedonia
Funding: €3,000–€150,000, depending on project scale
Application deadlines: 45 calendar days after 19 August 2026 for large-project concept notes; 60 calendar days after 19 August 2026 for small and mid-scale projects

The Foundation “European Capital of Culture – Skopje 2028” invites artists, cultural organisations, public institutions, universities, creative professionals, civil society organisations, community groups and international partners to propose projects for the city’s official 2028 cultural programme.

The call seeks ambitious, collaborative projects that bring artistic excellence together with European cultural exchange, citizen participation and lasting benefits for Skopje and North Macedonia. Proposals should relate to at least one of five programme strands: Art4Hope, Togetherness, rECOvering, CreARTing and Heritage.

Funding categories

• Small-scale projects: €3,000–€9,999. Intended for artistic, community and participatory initiatives with a strong local impact.
• Mid-scale projects: €10,000–€24,999. Intended for collaborations with broader public engagement and opportunities for international cooperation.
• Large-scale projects: €25,000–€150,000. Intended for major projects of strategic importance to the Skopje 2028 programme.

Large-scale applicants first submit a concept note outlining their artistic vision, European dimension and anticipated impact. Shortlisted applicants are then invited to develop a full proposal.

What the foundation is looking for

Projects should engage people and communities, encourage inclusion, reach new audiences and support international cultural cooperation. The foundation will also consider their artistic quality, creativity, sustainability and potential to strengthen Skopje’s cultural identity and visibility.

Applications must use the appropriate official application package. The foundation recommends reading the call guidelines before preparing a proposal. Small and mid-scale applications and large-scale concept notes have separate registration routes on the original listing.