How does it work?

Application & Pre-selection

A local authority fills out an online application. By assessing the eligibility, motivation and general approach, the Selection committee chooses eligible candidates to move to the second round, the development phase.

Development phase

Based on a Culture and Resilience action plan template candidates outline activities and processes for the year to come, aligned with existing priorities and strategies. In this phase they participate in a number of informative and informational webinars, have access to a database of good practices and are supported by the Cultural Pearls team through national mentors

Final Selection

The International jury evaluates Culture and Resilience action plans submitted by the candidates assessing the innovative and holistic approach, usage of participatory methods and cultural tools and the capacity to deliver the actions planned. Candidates that have submitted the most convincing action plans will then be awarded the title of BSR Cultural Pearls.

Cultural Pearls programme

Teams of the awarded towns, cities or municipalities undertake a year-long Cultural Pearls programme including:

  • Mentor organization supporting implementation of the action plan;
  • Capacity-building programme with expert interventions and networking;
  • International exchange and visits;
  • Access to a Cultural Pearls project partner funded seed money initiative: a ready-made model and guidebook for establishing innovative collaborations with the local Culture and Creative Sector to address social resilience issues. The toolkit will guide the Pearls through all steps from procurement to implementation, evaluation, and beyond.

Awarding ceremony

Local and International BSR Cultural Pearls title awarding ceremonies take place to create momentum, raise awareness about social resilience through culture and highlights achievements.

BSR network

A Baltic Sea Region wide network unites all Pearls and candidates continuing to share knowledge and good practices on the culture-drives social resilience.