The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) and the BMW Group launched the call for applications of the sixth edition of the Intercultural Innovation Award. Grassroots initiatives that encourage intercultural understanding through innovative methods, with the aim of alleviating identity-based conflicts around the world, are encouraged to apply online at interculturalinnovation.org. This year, the deadline for applications is 31 May, at 5:00 PM EDT.

Following a competitive process, ten organizations will be selected to receive the Intercultural Innovation Award. Based on their needs, recipients will receive a monetary grant to help their projects expand and replicate (total funding available in 2019: USD 100,500). They will also benefit from a one-year mentoring program, which will include capacity-building training in a multitude of areas, from communications to fundraising and project management. Recipients of the Intercultural Innovation Award will also become members of Intercultural Leaders, an exclusive skill and knowledge-sharing digital platform for civil society organizations and young leaders working in the field of intercultural dialogue.

“With the Intercultural Innovation Award, UNAOC and the BMW Group support innovative ways to promote dialogue and bridge divides for more inclusive societies where diversity is seen as an asset, rather than as a threat,” the High Representative for UNAOC Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos said. “It’s a great example of how the private sector and the UN can join forces to improve our world.”

“Our commitment to the recipients of the Intercultural Innovation Award goes way beyond financial support and focuses on building their competencies,” BMW Group’s Vice President Communications Strategy, Messaging, Communication Channels, Mr. Bill McAndrews said. “Through this partnership, the BMW Group and UNAOC strengthen civil society leaders and increase the impact of their projects.”

Launched in 2011, the Intercultural Innovation Award is an example of the role that corporate social responsibility can play within the United Nations system. UNAOC and the BMW Group jointly mobilize their resources, time, and networks to support awardees. This model of collaboration creates a more profound impact, as both partners provide their respective expertise to ensure the sustainable growth of each project. For more information, visit interculturalinnovation.org.

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