In 2024, more than 1.5 million foreigners chose Portugal as their place of residence, representing around 14.5% of the resident population, nearly double the figure observed in 2021.

Immigration is a significant challenge, making it crucial to strengthen efforts in the area of integration, particularly with regard to access to fundamental rights, adequate housing and employment, language acquisition, and opportunities for civic participation.

It is in this context that the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation is launching the Gulbenkian Integration initiative, as a means of strengthening the capacity of civil society to generate local, innovative and sustainable solutions. Between 2026 and 2027, this initiative aims to support projects led by civil society organisations focused on the integration of immigrants in Portugal, ensuring their active participation and striving for a transformative impact on their life journeys.

The support is aimed at civil society organisations, which may establish partnerships with any other public or private entities, whether for-profit or non-profit, that operate in Portugal and pursue economic and social objectives that align with this project.

The initiative is allocated €2.5 million to support around 25 projects nationwide, directly involving nearly 25,000 participants, including both direct and indirect beneficiaries. 

The projects eligible for support, with durations ranging from 12 to 18 months, should focus on initiatives that promote access to fundamental rights, language and civic education, integration into the labour market and housing, access to healthcare and education, and the development of personal and social skills.

The integration of immigrants is essential for social, economic, and cultural reasons: it fosters a fairer and more supportive society, boosts productivity and economic competitiveness, and enriches the country with diversity and new perspectives, benefiting both immigrants and the society that welcomes them. The implementation of this initiative will further strengthen Portugal’s position as a country that promotes inclusion, values diversity, and enhances social cohesion through strategic investment in integration.

Proposals can be submitted until April 10th.