In Berlin, the school authority applies for Pillar I funds at the Senate Department for Education, Youth and Family, based on the school contract. The funding criteria explicitly name outdoor areas with exercise and sports facilities; once approved, eligible costs are covered in full from federal (max. 70%) and state funds (min. 30%). The minimum funding per measure is €10,000.
Key points in Berlin
- The responsible school authority (district school authorities or the Senate Department for centrally managed and vocational schools) applies at the Senate Department for Education, Youth and Family; the basis is the school contract between school management, school supervision and school authority.
- Once approved, eligible costs are covered in full by the investment programme – financed from at most 70% federal and at least 30% state funds (funding criteria, chapter 6).
- Explicitly named: outdoor areas with exercise and sports facilities and recreation zones; also low-threshold, movement-promoting equipment.
- The minimum funding per individual measure is €10,000; at least one measure should be applied for and implemented per Startchancen school.
- According to the Senate Department, Berlin has a total of €188,406,600.04 for Pillar I over ten years; measures must be completed by 31 July 2034.
- According to the FAQ, a total of 180 schools in Berlin take part in the Startchancen programme (62 since 1 August 2024, a further 118 from the 2025/26 school year).
What this means for an exercise space
A BARbara station can be part of a Pillar I measure for outdoor areas if the school convincingly explains the pedagogical added value. Our short-concept template helps. If the station is below a minimum project size, it can be combined with other schoolyard measures.
Next steps
- Download and adapt the short-concept template
- Clarify budget and deadlines with the school authority
- Request a site check and firm quote from us
Share this page with your school authority or staff
Frequently asked questions
Who is responsible in Berlin?
The responsible school authority (district school authorities or the Senate Department for centrally managed and vocational schools) applies at the Senate Department for Education, Youth and Family; the basis is the school contract between school management, school supervision and school authority.
Is a calisthenics park fundable in Berlin?
The responsible body decides case by case, based on the pedagogical added value and the state guideline. We do not promise funding but support you with documents and a quote.