Results of the Micropolis Survey 2026 in Denmark

Reporting period: April–May 2026

As part of the project’s objective to strengthen local engagement with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Middelfart Culture & Library and the Middelfart Volunteer Centre conducted a qualitative needs assessment among 10 voluntary social associations in Middelfart Municipality.

The purpose of the study was to assess the associations’ awareness of the SDGs, identify existing SDG-related activities, explore future support needs, and investigate opportunities for local networking and learning.

The findings show that awareness of the SDGs is generally limited. Although 70% of participating organisations had heard of the SDGs, 80% described their knowledge as limited or superficial. None of the organisations currently use the SDGs as an explicit strategic framework.

Despite this, the study revealed that many associations already contribute significantly to several SDGs through their daily activities. Existing initiatives addressing loneliness, social inclusion, integration, community-building, and support for vulnerable groups were found to align particularly well with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

The assessment further demonstrated a strong willingness to engage with the SDGs in the future. Nine out of ten organisations expressed either interest or openness towards working more actively with the goals. Participants highlighted the need for practical support, including introductory training, workshops, examples of good practice, and simple communication materials. The SDGs were also viewed as a useful framework for project development and funding applications.

Networking opportunities emerged as another important area. Eighty percent of participating organisations expressed interest in joining a local SDG network, provided that activities remain practical, time-efficient, and focused on peer learning and exchange of experiences.

Based on the findings, Middelfart Culture & Library and the Middelfart Volunteer Centre have developed a follow-up action plan consisting of:
● Introductory SDG materials tailored to voluntary associations.
● Practical workshops featuring local examples and case studies.
● Development of communication and guidance materials.
● Establishment of an informal local SDG network.
● Support for integrating SDGs into project and funding applications.

As a first implementation activity, a pilot workshop entitled “The SDGs and My Association” will be held in September 2026. The workshop will introduce the SDGs from a local perspective, showcase existing SDG-related activities within voluntary organisations, and facilitate dialogue on future collaboration opportunities.

Overall, the study confirms that voluntary social associations already contribute substantially to the SDGs, although this contribution is often not recognised or articulated as such. The results indicate significant potential for strengthening local SDG ownership through targeted capacity-building, knowledge-sharing, and cross-sector collaboration opportunities.

Overall, the study confirms that voluntary social associations already contribute substantially to the SDGs, although this contribution is often not recognised or articulated as such. The results indicate significant potential for strengthening local SDG ownership through targeted capacity-building, knowledge-sharing, and cross-sector collaboration.