Jena, May 13, 2026. The “SPORT VERNETZT Jena” alliance, founded just under a year ago, has made it into the top 15 projects for the German Kita Prize 2026. The initiative actively promotes early childhood physical activity in urban environments.
- Who: “SPORT VERNETZT Jena” alliance (Science City Jena, ALBA BERLIN, Stadt Jena)
- What: Nomination in the category “Local Alliance for Early Education of the Year”
- Target Group: Children in the district of Jena-Winzerla
- Prize Money: A total of 110,000 euros in prize money through the German Kita Prize
More Physical Activity and Social Participation
Behind the successful project are well-known partners: The local basketball stars from Science City Jena cooperate closely with the capital city club ALBA BERLIN and the Stadt Jena. Together, they have set the goal of providing children in the district of Jena-Winzerla with easier and free access to sporting activities. In addition to pure health promotion, the network focuses primarily on the social participation of the youngest residents.
110,000 Euros in Prize Money Awaits
The German Kita Prize is one of the most important nationwide awards for early childhood education. The prize is awarded jointly by the Federal Ministry for Education, Family, Seniors, Women, and Youth and the German Children and Youth Foundation. The award recognizes special commitment, innovative concepts in childcare, and outstanding local networking. The nominated winning projects share a total prize fund of 110,000 euros.
Background: Social Commitment in Winzerla
Jena-Winzerla is a populous district in the south of Jena, heavily influenced by the prefabricated architecture of the 1970s and 80s. In such dense neighborhoods, low-threshold social and leisure offers are all the more important to support families in everyday life and to offer children equal opportunities for physical activity regardless of their social background. Science City Jena has been intensively involved in youth work for many years and, as a professional sports location, brings valuable sports-pedagogical expertise to the residential area.
Source:
“SPORT VERNETZT Jena” nominated for German Kita Prize
Transparency Note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.