The Culture Ministry announced Tuesday that the first selection round for the top 100 cultural foundations in Taiwan is now open to online applications. Culture Minister Li Yuan (李遠), who first proposed this idea at the beginning of his term, says he hopes that by promoting community building and investing public and private resources in its top 100 sites, Taiwan’s cultural history can be further enhanced and shared with the public.
According to the ministry, the categories for applying include cultural crafts, visual and performing arts, independent bookstores and publishing houses, and museums. In addition to emphasizing the historical context and cultural characteristics of each site, the program is meant to more deeply connect local community organizations to schools and other institutions through events such as exhibitions and guided tours.
The online application form is open through January 15, 2025. Qualified individuals, groups, or businesses chosen during the first round will receive a NT$500,000 (US$15,300) reward and a commemorative certificate. The ministry will provide more detailed information regarding the selection procedures at briefing sessions throughout Taiwan this month.