Sport for Development (S4D)
Network Germany e.V.
Sport. Works. Together.
Sport and exercise have the potential to bring about positive change in society. To realise this potential, a strong ‘Sport for Development’ sector is needed in Germany. We are committed to improving the framework conditions and giving the sector a voice.
About us
Who are we?
Sport for Development Network Germany e.V. was founded by 28 organisations on 10 July 2024 to provide the German S4D sector with a national umbrella structure. Our members are non-profit organisations, educational institutions, social enterprises and (sports) clubs that join forces to highlight the social contribution of sport.
Our vision
We want to live in a society in which everyone belongs equally and in which everyone uses their potential to shape a democratic, socially and ecologically sustainable coexistence.
Our mission
We maximise the impact of the ‘Sport for Development’ approach in Germany, thereby increasing its contribution to a just and sustainable coexistence.
Our goals
- Increase visibility:We will make the field of action and its social contribution more visible.
- Improve framework conditions:We promote the S4D sector by seeking political support for the field of action, among other things.
- Improve quality:We enhance the quality of the S4D field by promoting knowledge transfer among relevant stakeholders.
What is Sport for Development?
'Sport for Development' refers to the targeted use of sport and exercise as a tool to promote social development. This includes initiatives that promote social participation, educational success, personal development, health, and sustainability. This approach uses the universal language of sport to build bridges, promote skills, and strengthen communities both nationally and internationally.
Our impact
We promote social participation and cohesion
by targeting our services specifically at vulnerable groups and using sport to create spaces for people to meet, break down prejudices and strengthen cohesion.
We contribute to
democratic capacity
by teaching democratic skills through sport and exercise from an early age and creating participatory programmes that promote the social participation of vulnerable groups.
We deliver innovative concepts
for solving social problems such as discrimination and exclusion through targeted sport and exercise programmes, with a focus on social and personal development (so-called future skills).
We contribute to education for sustainable development
and support the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of health, education, gender equality, social inequality and partnerships to achieve these goals.
International connectivity
The S4D sector is important not only nationally, but internationally too. Our network is closely linked to the global Sport for Development community, working with international organisations, scientists, and political figures.
We are committed to ensuring that the German S4D sector remains connected to the global community and participates in international developments.
Best practice transfer:
We bring successful international S4D models to Germany and develop them further.
Scientific cooperation:
We collaborate with universities and research institutions to evaluate and further develop the S4D approach.
Political networks:
We exchange ideas with global stakeholders to strengthen the political framework for Sport for Development.
Our members
35 member organizations in Germany
Become a member
Do you want to help shape the Sport for Development approach in Germany? Then become part of our network! Here you can find out who can become a member, what types of membership we offer, and how the application process works.
Our Board
We are led by a diverse team of experienced leaders from sport, social enterprise and academia.
Julia Schilling
Board Member
Deputy CEO, Laureus Sport for Good Foundation Germany & Austria
Our sponsors
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