Berlin Hub: A Floating Market of Ideas and Solidarity in Civil Society
What is Berlin Hub?
Berlin Hub, a new initiative of the Civil Society Forum (CSF), embodies the belief that civil society thrives on real connections, honest conversations and mutual care. In a world increasingly shaped by disinformation, polarisation and isolation, Berlin Hub serves as a dynamic space where changemakers—artists, activists, scientists, journalists and exiled leaders—come together to collaborate and reimagine solutions to the challenges that divide us. The Hub reflects the spirit of a "floating market," allowing participants to organically exchange experiences and knowledge, much like neighbours shaping their community.
Berlin Hub serves as an incubator for those already driving change, providing a space to amplify their work. It is a platform where civil society flourishes through genuine connections rather than surface-level engagement.
CSF acknowledges that change is essential but cannot be achieved alone. Through Berlin Hub, we are prompted to reflect: How does this city shape our work and identity within civil society, across Europe and beyond? What happens when we connect—not just through projects, but by sharing our stories, dreams and aspirations?
Our Mission in Action
Berlin Hub was born from what we’ve witnessed—diaspora groups struggling in isolation, activists battling disinformation, and polarization deepening divides. Grassroots movements lack sustainable resources, while civil society remains fragmented. Berlin Hub exists to bridge these gaps, and this is why we invite you to be a part of it:
Capacity building and skill development:
We equip activists, artists and diaspora communities with tools in advocacy, storytelling, project management and facilitation.
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Fostering mutual awareness and network building:
We connect grassroots initiatives, diaspora leaders and exiled communities through platforms that promote meaningful exchange.
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Incubation and experimentation:
We co-create and test innovative ideas, providing space for initiatives that address societal and systemic challenges.
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Reflection and dialogue:
We create open spaces for civil society actors to question, disrupt and co-design solutions to systemic issues, promoting trust and collective action.
Ways to Engage
At Berlin Hub, we co-create spaces that unite people, fostering deep collaboration across sectors. By hosting diverse communities, we bring diverse voices into dialogue—through storytelling, performances, interactive workshops and many other formats.
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Host with Us:
Collaborate directly with CSF to co-design formats that reflect shared experiences and innovation.
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Host with Others:
Facilitate independent collaborations with microgrants supporting autonomous initiatives.
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Host Within:
Strengthen internal capacity-building and foster continuous learning spaces within communities.
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Host Beyond:
Extend the reach of Berlin Hub by activating spaces and events in Brandenburg, fostering regional connections and amplifying collaborative innovation
OPEN CALL: Host With Us & Host with Each Other
Berlin Hub is inviting civil society actors, artists, journalists, educators, social entrepreneurs, researchers, socially responsible businesses and feminist and queer collectives to co-create spaces for reflection, experimentation and collaboration. Apply now to join our hosting model, grounded in participatory leadership and disruptive design. Hosts have the opportunity to design and execute their desired concept for a Berlin Hub event. Read more details here. Apply till 5 May 2025 via Application form.
APRIL: Kick-off event “Bridging capacity together: How does this city shape our work and identity within civil society across Europe and beyond?”
On April 11, we’re kicking off our project with Open Space “Bridging capacity together: How does this city shape our work and identity within civil society across Europe and beyond?” Let’s explore how how cities shape our identities and influence collaboration, activism and civic engagement across Europe and beyond. This is a space for exchange, learning and co-creation. Read details about the event on LinkedIn and Facebook, and don't forget to register HERE.
APRIL: Holding Space for Change: An Intensive Online Journey into Facilitation, Dialogue and Community-Building Tools for Civil Society
A virtual experience for changemakers looking to deepen their facilitation skills, foster collaboration, and strengthen civil society networks. Together, we’ll explore tools for meaningful dialogue and lasting impact.
MAY: Rooted and Resilient: A Guided Online Journey for Civil Society Organizations to Rethink Resources, Reclaim Resilience, and Reconnect with Community
Includes 3 virtual immersive facilitated spaces. This series supports organizations in reimagining how they relate to resources, build resilience, and stay rooted in their communities.
JUNE: In-Person Intensive Course: Paths and Tools to Hold Space for Dialogue, Community, and Civil Society
A 3-day in-person deep dive in Berlin. Building on the online series, this course offers practical tools and embodied practices to strengthen dialogue, collaboration, and community in civil society initiatives.
APRIL – NOVEMBER: An evolving practice of co-creation
Spaces, performances, exhibitions and public talks—shaped by partners applying for the Berlin Hub hosting model: Host with us. Host with each other. Host beyond.
A dynamic and ongoing initiative inviting partners to activate the Berlin Hub through collaborative projects and events, embodying the spirit of shared hosting and creativity.