Brimming with ideas
The name ‘Klever Birne’ refers to an ideas competition launched by the city of Kleve in collaboration with the Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences. The Klever Birne is intended to raise awareness of sustainability goals at a global and local level. The aim is to develop new ideas for sustainable measures together with the people of Kleve.
This year’s motto
The challenge
Who can apply?
Citizens, private groups, students, educational institutions, public institutions (schools, kindergartens, libraries, etc.), companies, associations, start-ups and institutions can apply for the Klever Birne. Employees of the City of Kleve and Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences as well as sponsors and members of the jury are not eligible to participate. Furthermore, ideas that have already won an award cannot be awarded again.
What are the requirements?
- Your idea follows the principle of the sharing economy.
- Your idea can be implemented in Kleve.
- Your idea addresses at least one of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals.
How will your idea be evaluated?
Degree of innovation: How creative and novel is your idea? Does it promote the sharing of resources, knowledge or services in an innovative way?
Practical feasibility: How realistic is your idea? Can it be integrated into existing structures? What infrastructural requirements are necessary?
Sustainability: Does your idea contribute to sustainable development? It should take social, ecological or economic aspects into account.
Social added value & participation: How does your idea strengthen the community? Does it promote social integration, participation and access to resources for different social groups?
What is there to win?
1st prize: € 2,000 + coaching* + certificate
2nd prize : € 1,500 + coaching* + certificate
3rd prize : € 1,000 + coaching* + certificate
Audience prize: € 100 city voucher
*Coaching: You will receive tailored support for the implementation of your idea – whether as a private individual, association or company. This includes, for example, practical assistance in areas such as the use of networks in universities, cities and business or scientific support for the further development and implementation of the concept.
A look back: That was the Klever Birne 2024
Award Ceremony of the Klever Birne 2024
Ten selected applicants had the opportunity to present their ideas at a small trade fair and win the jury’s approval. Three ideas received prize money: “17 Raised Beds for 17 SDGs” from Berufsbildungszentrum Kleve, “EcoParkKleve” from citizens and “Green Walls” from Joseph Beuys School Kleve. The Audience Award went to the Joseph Beuys School Kleve and the student impact award went to Danial Sharghi’s “KleveConnect”.
FAQ
Open frequently asked questions
Can I submit several ideas?
Only one idea can be submitted per person. However, this does not apply to organisations: several ideas can be submitted by one organisation if a different main contact person is responsible for each one.
Can the idea have an impact beyond Kleve?
Of course, the impact of the idea can also extend beyond the city of Kleve. However, it is important that an impact can be felt in Kleve.
Does the idea have to have an impact in the entire city of Kleve, or can the impact only regard one part of Kleve?
The main thing is that the idea has a tangible impact in Kleve. This can also only affect a small part of Kleve.
Are project ideas that are already being funded by other organisations also supported?
Ideas that are already being funded are not excluded from participating in the Klever Birne sustainability award.
Can I give the presentation at the award ceremony in English?
Yes, the presentations can also be given in English. The poster presented can be in English as well.
