Adopt a Public Space! Call for Applications – 2026

In 2026, we are once again announcing our “Adopt a Public Space!” call for applications. Within this program, the Józsefváros Municipality supports applicants for one year in cleaning, maintaining, improving, and developing public spaces near them or connected to their activities, as well as in continuously keeping them tidy.

Below you can find a short summary. The full call for applications with detailed information is available at the end of the announcement.

What does adoption mean?

When applying, the individual or organization specifies which public space they would like to take care of and what tasks they can and wish to undertake. It is advisable to choose a location close to one’s residence or place of operation.

Applicants will coordinate with staff from the Community Participation Office (Közösségi Részvételi Iroda) and the Józsefváros Management Center (Józsefvárosi Gazdálkodási Központ Zrt. – JGK Zrt.) regarding professional and community-related requirements. JGK Zrt. also provides professional support throughout the program.

Possible activities include (but are not limited to):

• Maintenance of green areas in public spaces
  
• Care of plants in containers, flower beds
  
• Maintenance of dog parks
  
• Renovation of green areas, for example planting grass and vegetation (to an extent that does not require public space development plan)
  
• Placement and maintenance of plant containers
  
• Soil replacement and improvement
  
• Maintenance of tree pits
  
• Regular waste collection
  
• De-icing (winter maintenance)
  
• Establishment of community composting facilities
  
• Installation of bird protection equipment
  

Who can apply?

• Individuals over 18 years old
  
• Condominium associations in Józsefváros
  
• Organizations with a registered office or site in Józsefváros
  
• Institutions located in Józsefváros

How much funding is available?

• Maximum support per application: HUF 300,000
  
• For community composting projects: up to HUF 400,000
  

The support is a non-repayable grant, provided for one year from the signing of the contract. Payment is made via reimbursement (after expenses are incurred).

What other support is provided?

Beyond financial support:

• JGK Zrt. reviews and supports the implementation plan professionally, provides continuous expert assistance during implementation
  
• The Community Participation Office offers community-building and organizational guidance, provides networking opportunities among participants
  

What areas can be adopted?

• Public spaces owned and maintained by the Municipality
  
• Public furniture (e.g., plant containers) maintained by the Municipality
  
• Public spaces owned/managed by the Budapest Municipality (with conditions)
  

What is the application for?

Funding can be used for tools and materials needed for maintaining and improving the public space, such as:

• Gardening tools
  
• Grass seed
  
• Soil
  
• Watering cans
  
• Trash bags
  
• Brooms, etc.
  

How to apply?

Deadline: June 15, 2026, 6 p.m.

Applications must be submitted in Hungarian using the official application form and declarations, signed by an authorized person.

Submission methods:

• In person
  
• By post
  
• Electronically via official government platforms
  

Documents must be submitted in PDF format.

Additional important information

• Growing food crops (e.g., tomatoes, peppers, potatoes) is not allowed
  
• Applicants may request trash bins or cigarette waste bins
  
• Renovation work must be completed before regular maintenance begins
  
• Placement or modification of public furniture requires official approval
  
• Certain regulatory and urban planning rules must be followed
  
• For capital-owned areas, additional approvals may be required
  

Community composting (new in 2026)

• Maximum funding: HUF 400,000
  
• Only organizations or institutions in Józsefváros may apply
  
• Requirements include:
  
  • Fenced area
    
  • Lockable compost bins
    
  • Operational plan
    

Applicants must coordinate the location in advance and sign an operational agreement if successful.

Contact

For inquiries, you can contact our colleagues by phone at +36 1 459 2111, or via email at nagy.annamaria@jozsefvaros.hu and zoldprogram@jozsefvaros.hu