The state government of North Rhine-Westphalia has once again announced the 2026 “Family-Friendly Municipality” state award. Municipalities in North Rhine-Westphalia were invited to apply either with innovative individual projects or with comprehensive family policy concepts.
The award ceremony will take place on November 5, 2026.
Family-oriented intergenerational projects, the active involvement of children and parents in planning processes, a family-friendly administrative structure, flexible care and support services, as well as prevention efforts and community-based work: Many municipalities in North Rhine-Westphalia are increasingly aligning their actions with the needs of families. Challenges are viewed as opportunities in this context, particularly given the diversity of everyday family life and demographic change.
Under this motto, the state award recognizing family-friendly municipalities was presented for the third time. Family life takes shape at the local level. That is why the state government wants to highlight and honor municipalities’ commitment to family policy. Whether in a large city, a medium-sized city, a small town, or a rural community—family-friendliness is something people experience firsthand where they live.
Through July 17, 2026, municipalities could apply with comprehensive family policy plans, individual projects, or priority projects focused on the topics of “Balancing Family, Caregiving, and Work” and “Combating Child and Family Poverty.”
The state award “Family-Friendly Municipality” was presented for the first time in 2024. With this award, the state government of North Rhine-Westphalia recognizes municipalities’ commitment to family-friendliness and helps raise awareness of innovative projects and best practices throughout the state—serving as both inspiration and a blueprint.
