Initiative Encourages Tradition-Preserving Communities Through Special Support Program
Ministry of Culture and Innovation to Support Csoóri Sándor Program with HUF 2.5 Billion
The Ministry of Culture and Innovation has announced its continued support for the Csoóri Sándor Program with a funding of HUF 2.5 billion (EUR 6.3 million) this year. The program will benefit 1,776 winning applicants, as revealed by Balázs Hankó during a recent event at the Hungarian Heritage House in Budapest.
The grants will be instrumental in reaching over 600 foreign regions to further strengthen Hungarian identity, as emphasized by the Minister for Culture and Innovation. Among the recipients, more than 700 folk dance ensembles, over 300 dance houses, and 250 other folk music programs have been awarded support.
This year, a total of 2,101 applications were received for the program, with folk dance being the most popular category. Significant interest was also shown in the support categories for the professional activities of communities of folk artists.
The Csoóri Sándor Program, launched by the government in 2017, aims to promote the transfer of knowledge and develop the professional work of Hungarian folk dance and folk music ensembles, as well as strengthen communities to preserve Hungarian values and traditions.
Miklós Both, Director General of the Hungarian Heritage House, highlighted the importance of creating supportive communities through the program, not only for preserving traditions but also for everyday life. The Hungarian Heritage House plays a crucial role in uniting countries, NGOs, and associations at regional and county levels to support and share knowledge.
The grants awarded under the program will support the professional work of workshops in Hungary and abroad, finance dance workshops, folk craft programs, dance ensembles, folk music groups, and folk singing groups. Organizations can utilize the funding for the production of folk costumes, live folk music ensemble services, professional teaching costs, and the purchase of equipment to support their work.
The awarded grants are available until June 30, 2025, enabling recipients to enhance their annual activities and contribute to the preservation and promotion of Hungarian folk culture. Through the support provided by the Csoóri Sándor Program, communities and organizations are empowered to continue their valuable work in upholding Hungarian traditions and heritage.
