On Thursday, 12 February 2026, students in Schmalkalden had the opportunity to explore how their ideas can evolve into real, funded social initiatives. The interactive workshop “Turn Your Idea into a Funded Social Project” took place at Auer Gasse 12 and was led by Vladislav Artiukhov, Project Coordinator at CGE Erfurt e.V.
The event brought together motivated students eager to create positive social change in their communities through the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) Solidarity Projects programme.
From Idea to Structured Action
During the session, participants learned:
– How ESC funding works
– Who can apply for a Solidarity Project
– What types of projects are eligible
– How to develop and structure a strong project idea
– Practical steps for submitting a successful application.
Through interactive discussions and hands-on exercises, students were guided step by step in shaping their own project concepts. Whether they arrived with a concrete idea or simply curiosity, everyone left with clearer direction and practical knowledge on how to move forward.
Empowering Social Impact Through Strategic Collaboration
ESC Solidarity Projects provide young people with the opportunity to design and implement initiatives that address pressing social challenges in their communities. The workshop demonstrated how accessible this funding programme can be and encouraged students to take initiative, collaborate, and lead meaningful local change.
Beyond knowledge transfer, this workshop represented an important strategic step. It was organized as part of the Task4ISI project, one of CGE’s key initiatives aimed at strengthening innovation, social engagement, and entrepreneurial thinking among diverse target groups, including young people with migrant backgrounds.
Importantly, this event also served as an extra step toward establishing stronger foundations with our stakeholders, particularly the Schmalkalden International Students Office. By collaborating closely with the International Office, Task4ISI continues to build sustainable partnerships that create direct pathways for international and migrant students to access European opportunities such as ESC funding.
Through Task4ISI, we aim not only to provide knowledge and practical tools, but also to create supportive ecosystems where ideas can grow into impactful social enterprises and community-driven initiatives. By connecting European funding mechanisms with local and international students in Schmalkalden, CGE further strengthens a culture of active citizenship, inclusion, and long-term social responsibility.
Written by: Navin