The Cycladic Identity Initiative, led by the Museum of Cycladic Art, has announced the start of its fourth phase of funding for projects aimed at protecting and promoting the unique identity of the Cycladic islands. Non-profit organizations active across the Cyclades are invited to submit proposals by February 20, 2026, to secure support for their initiatives.

Since its inception three years ago, the Cycladic Identity Initiative has supported 26 projects across 15 islands, with some projects spanning multiple islands. This latest funding round encourages applications focused on one or more of the initiative’s three priority areas: Culture, Biodiversity, and Intangible Cultural Heritage. Projects should contribute to the preservation, restoration, or enhancement of these essential elements.

Currently, ten projects selected in the previous funding phase are underway on islands including Andros, Donousa, Koufonisi, Mykonos, Santorini, Serifos, Syros, and Tinos. Two projects extend across multiple islands, one covering Mykonos, Rineia, and Delos, and another spanning Andros, Kythnos, and a soon-to-be-announced third island.

Applicants can find the funding terms and conditions on the initiative’s website and submit their applications online. For further information, interested parties may contact the initiative via email at [email protected] or by phone.

A Platform for Cultural and Environmental Stewardship

The Cycladic Identity Initiative serves as a dynamic platform to attract and allocate resources to projects led by organizations operating in the Cyclades. By focusing on cultural preservation, biodiversity conservation, and safeguarding intangible heritage such as traditional practices and local knowledge, the initiative aims to protect the islands’ distinctive character for future generations.

Evaluation of proposals is conducted by a Scientific Committee composed of experts, including Dr. Dimitris Athanasoulis, Director of the Cyclades Antiquities Ephorate; Dr. Michael Boyd, Senior Research Affiliate at The Cyprus Institute; Dimitris Karavellas, General Director of WWF Greece; and Dr. Angeliki Kosmopoulou, Archaeologist and Strategic Storytelling Consultant.

Ongoing and Upcoming Projects Highlight the Islands’ Rich Heritage

Among the current projects are the documentation and revitalization of traditional water management practices in Andros, photographic and cinematic workshops for students in Koufonisi focusing on the island of Keros, restoration of historic trails in Donousa, and exploration of biodiversity through interactive treasure hunts in Syros.

Other initiatives include preserving Santorini’s industrial heritage, documenting the history of Serifos’ mines, and protecting pollinators to support biodiversity. Each project underscores the rich, multifaceted heritage of the Cyclades, blending environmental stewardship with cultural awareness.

With the Cycladic Identity Initiative continuing to foster sustainable development and heritage conservation, the islands are poised to maintain their unique allure while adapting to modern challenges. This funding phase offers new opportunities for local organizations to engage in meaningful work that honors the past and safeguards the future of the Cyclades.