The Institute of the Estonian Language (EKI) has opened the first funding round for 2026 Estonian education projects abroad, inviting schools and organisations worldwide to apply by Friday, 2 January 2026.
The grant supports initiatives that strengthen the teaching, use and preservation of the Estonian language and culture outside Estonia. Funded projects may take place at any point between 1 January and 31 December 2026.
What can be funded
Support is available for a wide range of education-related activities, including:
- Estonian language and culture classes
- learning-support activities and teaching development
- cultural programs directly linked to education
- language and culture camps for children and young people (both abroad and in Estonia).
The grant supports training for teachers and parents on Estonian language and culture topics and inviting specialist trainers to deliver workshops locally.
The grant also supports longer-term and capacity-building activities that strengthen Estonian language education in communities abroad, including regular learning programs for children and young people that run for at least four months, delivered by teachers or engaged parents.
Key conditions
- Applications are open to legal entities working with Estonian communities abroad.
- Own or co-funding must make up at least 20% of the total project budget.
- Participation or tuition fees included where relevant.
- Reports from previously funded projects must be submitted — organisations with outstanding reports or repayments will not be considered.
- New for 2026 is a simplified application form for participation in Estonian language days (emakeelepäevad) (max €400 per organisation).
While no general information session will be held this round, applicants are encouraged to contact EKI with questions. Email Merike Barborak at EKI: merike.barborak[at]eki.ee
Read the grant conditions in Estonian here: Grant conditions
How to apply
Completed and signed applications should be submitted electronically to: haridusprojekt[at]eki.ee
Please include the project name in the email subject line. Digital signatures and scanned signed documents are also accepted.
Funding decisions will be announced within one month of the application deadline.
Read more
More information and application forms: eki.ee/haridusprojektide-taotlused/
