The independence of the arts strengthens our democracy, inspires dialogue and is an indispensable part of our society. For art and culture to have their full impact, reliable funding is needed – including from the business community. As an organisation that has been accompanying and supporting corporate engagement with culture for over 75 years, it is particularly important to us to recognise outstanding examples.

It was with this aim in mind that the German Cultural Promotion Prize was established in 2006. 
Since then, it has recognised companies and foundations whose projects demonstrate just how diverse and effective cultural promotion is in Germany – and which thereby make an important contribution to a free society. 

From autumn 2026, the German Cultural Promotion Prize will introduce a new application process. In future, a rolling application system will be in place: applications can be submitted on an ongoing basis throughout the year.

For the 2027 German Cultural Promotion Prize, the deadline is 15 February 2027. All applications received by this date will be considered for the 2027 award cycle.

Another new feature is that cultural institutions can nominate their funding partners and supporting companies for the prize. This is intended to raise the profile of outstanding examples of corporate engagement with culture.