Liepāja is inviting residents to participate in a city-wide initiative celebrating European values through a new micro-grant program. The “Eiropas sapnis mūsu apkaimē!” (European Dream in Our Neighborhood) contest, launched by the Liepāja 2027 foundation, will provide funding for interactive activities and creative workshops held on May 9, 2026, as part of the city’s European Day celebrations. The events will take place in the square near the “Lielais dzintars” concert hall (Jūras iela 11).
The initiative aims to highlight the unique character of Liepāja’s nine neighborhoods – Dienvidrietumus, Ezerkrastu, Jaunliepāja, Jauno pasauli, Karosta, Tosmari, Vecliepāja, Zaļo birzi, and Ziemeļu priekšpilsēta – fostering a sense of unity and showcasing the city’s diversity. The Liepāja 2027 project seeks to strengthen community ties to European values through locally-driven events. This contest is a key component of the broader “Rokam roku” (Lending a Hand) program for 2027.
Funding Available for Community-Led Events
A total of 9,000 euros in funding is available through the micro-grant program. Individual projects can receive up to 1,000 euros to support their implementation. The funding is open to legally registered entities in Latvia – including associations, foundations, and limited liability companies (excluding state or municipal institutions) – as well as self-employed individuals. The Liepāja 2027 foundation emphasizes that activities should be interactive, encouraging participation from attendees, and should connect neighborhood identity with European values.
How to Apply for a Micro-Grant
Applications must be submitted electronically by March 15, 2026, at 23:59, through the Liepāja City Council’s e-service portal: https://epakalpojumi.liepaja.lv/lv/projects/preview/OEw5VUd2dVZqYVpHV0Y5M3R3VjJLZz09/. Detailed information about the contest rules and required documentation can be found on the Liepāja 2027 website: https://liepaja2027.lv/aktualitates/liepaja-2027-aicina-apkaimes-iesaistities-eiropas-dienas-svinibas/.
Broader Support for Liepāja’s European Day Celebrations
The “Eiropas diena” (European Day) project is being implemented by the Liepāja 2027 foundation with total funding of 28,306.44 euros. This includes contributions from Liepāja City (16,000 euros), Dienvidkurzemes Municipality (287.44 euros), Kuldīga Municipality (500 euros), and the Latvian Ministry of Culture (11,519 euros). AS “CleanR Grupa” is the main partner supporting environmental education and sustainability initiatives, although SIA “Lux Express Latvia” is the mobility partner for the event.
Those seeking further information about the contest can contact Kristiāna Paula Lībiete, Public Relations Specialist at the Liepāja 2027 foundation, at +371 22355771 or [email protected]. Justīne Rusakova, Head of Public Participation Projects at the foundation, is also available at +371 26668571 or [email protected].
The application deadline of March 15th marks a key date for Liepāja communities interested in shaping the city’s European Day celebrations. The Liepāja 2027 foundation will announce the selected projects in the coming weeks, paving the way for a vibrant and inclusive event on May 9th. Residents are encouraged to explore the contest guidelines and submit their proposals to contribute to a meaningful celebration of European values within their neighborhoods.
Share your thoughts on this initiative and how it might benefit Liepāja’s communities in the comments below.
