The Open Competition step by step
1. Familiarising yourself with the rules
Before submitting your application, please read the regulations and the objectives of the Open Competition carefully. Make sure that your project fits within the framework of activities aimed at fostering dialogue and understanding between Poles and the nations of Eastern Europe.
2. Registration in the application generator
Register on the platform otwartykonkurs.mieroszewski.pl and create an account. The online application generator is the only tool used for preparing and submitting applications.
3. Preparation of documents
Complete the application, including:
- a project implementation schedule,
- a project budget (with a minimum own contribution of 20%),
- justification for the project,
- other required attachments, such as registration documents.
4. Submission of the application
Applications may be submitted in one of the following forms:
- paper version: a hand-signed document delivered in person, by courier or by post to the Centre’s address,
- electronic version: an electronically signed document (with a qualified electronic signature, trusted profile or personal signature) submitted via the application generator at otwartykonkurs.mieroszewski.pl.
5. Formal assessment
Your application will undergo a formal assessment. Any formal deficiencies must be corrected within 7 days of receiving a request; otherwise, the application will be left without consideration.
6. Substantive assessment
Applications that meet the formal requirements are submitted for evaluation by the competition committee. At this stage, the committee awards points for the quality of the project and recommends either the granting or refusal of funding.
7. Decision of the director of the Centre
The director of the Centre makes the final decision on the awarding of funding. In the event of approval, the applicant is informed of the amount granted.
8. Budget adjustment
If the granted amount is lower than requested, the applicant will be asked to adjust the budget accordingly before signing the agreement, unless they decide to withdraw from the awarded funding.
9. Signing the agreement
The applicant and the Centre sign an agreement specifying the terms of project implementation and the rules for settling the grant.
10. Project implementation
The project should be implemented in accordance with the approved schedule and budget. Funds may be used solely for eligible costs, as defined in the competition regulations.
11. Preparation of the final report
After completing the project, prepare a substantive and financial report on its implementation. The report must be prepared using the application generator at otwartykonkurs.mieroszewski.pl.
12. Submission of the final report
The report must be submitted exclusively in paper form to the Centre’s address. The financial section must include full documentation confirming the incurred expenses, while the substantive section should be supported by materials documenting the achievement of project objectives.
13. Project settlement
The Centre verifies the report. If necessary, you may be asked to provide additional explanations or documents. Once the report is approved, the funding is considered fully settled.
More information can be found in the FAQ section and the Open Competition documents.
International cooperation
In the Open Competition, we are interested in projects that involve cooperation between Poland and other Eastern European countries. Such initiatives contribute to the strengthening of international relations and cultural, educational and scientific cooperation. Bilateral projects enable the exchange of experience and knowledge, contributing to a better understanding of common history, culture and current political challenges. Supporting this kind of cooperation is key to building lasting ties between nations and developing joint activities in Central and Eastern Europe.
Grant funds can be used to implement a wide variety of projects. The grant can be used to fund the organisation of conferences, workshops, debates, cultural meetings, exhibitions, as well as small, non-commercial publishing projects. Support can cover national and international travel costs, accommodation, meals for participants, speakers‘ fees, coordinators’ salaries and administrative and promotional costs. Interdisciplinary projects that bring together different areas of knowledge can also be supported.