The German Children's Fund's "Maker Spaces" special fund supports open learning spaces where students can work in an experimental and project-based manner using digital and analog tools. These may include, for example, 3D printers, milling machines, laser cutters, plotters, cameras, green screens, laptops, or tablets. Schools operated by local governments or church organizations, as well as support associations and parent initiatives with nonprofit status, are eligible to apply. A prerequisite is that the applicant has not previously received funding for a Maker Space. Funding generally amounts to €10,000; the specific amount is determined by the jury following the expression of interest process. Funded projects must be implemented in the 2027 calendar year. Applicants must first submit an expression of interest. Selected schools then submit a complete project proposal.
Further information:
| Funding Agency | Deutsches Kinderhilfswerk e.V. |
| Grant Amount | usually €10,000 |
| Grant Amount (Level) | Medium-sized projects: €5,000–10,000 |
| Eligible Applicants | Schools, support associations, and parent initiatives with official association status |
| Application Deadline | October 31, 2026 – Expression of Interest; January 15, 2027 – Project Proposal for Selected Schools |
| Funding Period | Calendar Year 2027 |