News

Read the latest news and updates from our region.

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19th October 2026

The whole of life: the space that connects generations 

On October 15, 2026, the Všehrisko was opened at the Waterworks in Žilina. The new public space was created in cooperation with the City of Žilina, the Office of the Chief Architect, and the Kia Slovakia Foundation and is intended for children, families, and other visitors of this popular recreational site. 

The entire playground differs from ordinary playgrounds already in its concept. It does not have a precise „user’s manual“ – it offers visitors freedom and space to use the individual elements according to their own imagination. At the same time, the entire area intertwines with a fairy tale about uniqueness, which adds to its unique character. 

Children as part of the creation of Všehrisko 

The idea of creating Všehrisko began to develop as early as 2024. The study itself was preceded by a participatory process in which children were involved. Their ideas and creativity not only inspired the design, but also influenced the final appearance of the place. 

One of the results are Guardians of the All-Hallowed Place – original characters created from children's designs that accompany visitors through the individual zones and help them discover the story of the entire complex. 

Investment in space for all generations 

The total cost of implementing the Všehrisko exceeded 982 thousand euros. The Kia Slovakia Foundation was a key partner of the project and contributed a sum to its implementation. 700 000 euros from the share of paid tax (2 %). 

The project is the result of a multi-year collaboration between the city, architects, the foundation, the contractor, and other involved partners. The common goal was to create a quality place that would expand the possibilities for spending free time at the Waterworks and serve various generations. 

The entire site has been open and accessible to the public since October 15, 2026. 

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6th October 2026

CSR conference on November 4, 2026 

Self-regulation and independence as the key to managing a diverse class

Movement should be accessible to everyone. Regardless of age, disability or individual abilities. It is this principle that brought together the projects "We invite teachers from kindergartens and first-cycle elementary schools," "School support teams," and the leadership of schools from the Žilina region. the third year of the Conference for Teachers, which will take place November 4, 2026, in the New Synagogue in Žilina.

Together with an expert partner Diversity We will bring practical experiences and tools that can be used directly in the school environment – from working with emotions and building a safe environment, through routines and support for independence, to the psychological hygiene of educators. The event will be accompanied by Adela Vinczeová.

Participation in the conference is free of charge. Registration is open until October 23, 2026, or until capacity is reached. You can register HERE

We look forward to a joint afternoon full of practical inspiration, sharing of experiences, and ideas for everyday work with children.

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4th October 2026

Movement that connects. Seventeen projects have brought sport and play without barriers. 

The Grant Call Inspiration Through Movement in 2026 supported inclusive playgrounds, accessible sports facilities, and physical activities for people with various needs 

Movement should be accessible to everyone. Regardless of age, disability or individual abilities. It is this principle that has brought together the projects supported by the Kia Slovakia Foundation in a grant call focused on inclusive sports, healthy movement and removing barriers. 

In 2026, it was successfully implemented 17 projects with overall support at a value of more than €383,000. Schools, cities, municipalities, sports clubs, and non-profit organizations operating in various parts of the Žilina Region received support. The selection of projects was decided by an expert evaluation committee, which assessed their contribution, quality, and long-term impact on local communities. 

The supported projects brought new inclusive playgrounds, sports and play zones, and barrier-free sports facilities; modernized existing spaces and expanded mobility options for children, seniors, and people with disabilities. The support also helped organizations provide sports and rehabilitation equipment, allowing them to carry out physical, rehabilitation, and community activities on a long-term basis. 

Projects supported in the Inšpirácia Pohybom 2026 grant program 

  • Village of Strečno – Construction of an inclusive children’s playground 
  • The Town of Lodno – A place where we like to move around 
  • Technical Secondary School Čadca – No barriers in movement 
  • Village of Lúčky – Inclusive children’s playground in the village of Lúčky 
  • City of Turčianske Teplice – Children's playground in Turčiansky Michal 
  • City of Krásno nad Kysucou – Safe and inclusive playground near the primary school and kindergarten in Krásno nad Kysucou – Kalinov 
  • Primary School E. Lániho Bytča – Inclusive sports facility near the Primary School E. Lániho 
  • The United School of Dolný Kubín – Otherness drives us towards perfection 
  • Primary School Turany – Let’s get moving together 
  • Primary school with kindergarten Priehradná Martin – Health in motion: a school fitness park for children 
  • Village of Bobrov – The meadow of life 
  • Martin Arthritis League – ReumaWalk 2026 – On the path to pain-free movement 
  • Multi-sport academy Žilina – Sport 
  • CHADIM’S CHARITY FOUNDATION – 4th year Running with Wolves for Life- Chadim’s Charity RUN DAY – Three countries – three times the support 
  • AKNELA – Dance for everyone – inclusive sports equipment for children with disabilities 
  • SK JUVENTA Žilina – The joy of movement 
  • Embracing as a Gift – Sport for Health without Barriers 

The projects implemented have shown that inclusion does not only arise from removing physical barriers; it is created when accessible spaces, regular activities, and a community of people who create opportunities for everyone come together. 

We thank all the supported organizations, schools, municipalities, coaches, educators, parents, and volunteers who help create an environment where movement can bring people together regardless of differences. 

The funds provided by the Kia Slovakia Foundation for the implementation of projects come from a portion of taxes paid (2 %). 

Grant programs

Submit your project and get support.

Closed

Robotics 2026

Applicants

Secondary vocational schools in the Žilina Region

Deadline

28. 11. 2025

Amount of support

60 000 €

Allocation

300 000 €
Closed

Neighborhood 2026

Applicants

Selected municipalities in the Žilina Region

Deadline

6. 12. 2025

Amount of support

15,000 EUR

Allocation

90,000 EUR
Closed

Non-formal education 2026

Applicants

Selected organizations in the Žilina Region

Deadline

12. 12. 2025

Amount of support

Max. 10,000 EUR

Allocation

50,000 EUR

Kútiky 2026

Applicants

Municipalities and nursery schools in the Žilina Region

Deadline

14. 11. 2025

Amount of support

3,000 EUR

Allocation

30,000 EUR
Closed

Advent Calendar 2025/2026

Applicants

organizations

Deadline

10. 11. 2025

Amount of support

1,500 EUR

Allocation

36,000 EUR
Closed

Green Neighborhood 2025

Applicants

Surrounding municipalities in the Žilina Region

Deadline

28. 2. 2025

Amount of support

15,000 EUR

Allocation

90,000 EUR

The Kia Foundation was established to systematically and long-term support the development of the Žilina region.

We believe that real changes arise where the needs of communities, people’s engagement, and a responsible approach to regional development are interconnected.

The Foundation in Numbers

712

supported organizations

11 118 164 €

reallocated funds

148

supported primary schools

1.5 million €

hospital support