opf.rocks – big ideas from the Upper Palatinate.
With opf.rocks, Oberpfalz Marketing is once again looking for creative thinkers, bold changemakers and dedicated teams whose ideas help the Upper Palatinate thrive. Whether you’re a start-up, a community organisation, a school project or someone with a passion project, the “opf.rocks – innovation challenge” celebrates initiative, creativity and a passion for the place we call home.
The next competition opens on 2 November 2026. You have until 20 December 2026 to submit your idea. Entries will then be put to a public vote on opf.hub.
Following the public vote and jury selection, the winning ideas will receive €1,000 in prize money and an opf.rocks trophy. Winners will be celebrated at opf.camp and may also be featured in our opf.cast podcast or our opf.stories profile series.
Get involved and show the creativity, courage and innovation.
Your idea can make a difference – for you, for others and for the whole region.
opf.rocks categories
Six categories. Endless possibilities.
Whether you’re making things happen, getting creative or supporting others, there’s a category for your idea.
Anpacken
Business & Innovation
Turning bold ideas into reality. We are looking for innovative projects that bring fresh ideas, courage, and momentum to business and industry across the region. Whether you are a start-up, a family-owned business, or a forward-looking initiative, this category highlights entrepreneurial spirit that drives real change.
Zusammenhalten
Community & Engagement
Strengthening the region together. This category honors the individuals, local organizations, and initiatives that actively support our community and bring people together. We want to highlight dedication that truly enriches life in the Upper Palatinate.
Gestalten
Culture & Creativity
Making culture happen in the Upper Palatinate. This category is dedicated to the people who shape our local culture—whether on stage, online, in public spaces, or in regional clubs. We want to highlight projects and ideas that inspire others, connect people, and keep our cultural scene vibrant.
Vorausgehen
Sustainability
For everyone taking real action to protect our future. From climate initiatives and resource conservation to sustainable local projects, we are looking for ideas that put sustainability into practice. This category recognizes the people leading by example and showing how real progress is made.
Weiterdenken
Education & Talent
New approaches to learning and growth. This category highlights the individuals, organizations, and projects making knowledge accessible and building skills for tomorrow. We are looking for ideas that create real educational opportunities for people of all ages across the Upper Palatinate.
Genießen
Lifestyle & Leisure
Making the Upper Palatinate a great place to be. From regional food and tourism to leisure activities and local culture, this category is all about what makes our region unique. We are looking for projects that turn local passion into experiences that bring people together.
Warum mitmachen? Deine Idee zählt!
Do you have an idea that strengthens the Upper Palatinate or brings new momentum to the region? Then opf.rocks is the right place for you — whether your project is just starting out or already underway.
Why it’s worth taking part:
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Gain visibility: Your idea will be presented across Oberpfalz Marketing’s channels—online, in the media, and at opf.camp.
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Expand your network: Connect with local businesses, community initiatives, and active people from across the region.
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Tell your story: Have the chance to be featured in our opf.cast podcast or opf.stories profile series.
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Win recognition (and prizes): The top projects receive €1,000 in prize money, a trophy, and regional coverage.
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Simple application: Describe your project briefly, fill out the form, and you are ready to go.
Why take part?
How it works
Jury
The opf.rocks jury brings together regional experience, local commitment, and fresh perspectives. In the first round, the Board of Oberpfalz Marketing and the Ambassadors of the Upper Palatinate evaluate the submissions.
For this second year of opf.rocks, winners from the previous round are joining the jury—adding practical insights and a broader regional perspective to the decision-making process.
opf.rocks is only the beginning.
opf.rocks highlights the potential of our region—and proves that every idea matters. Get involved, share your vision, and showcase what the Upper Palatinate has to offer. The idea competition is only the beginning. Through the Upper Palatinate Innovation Network, we will continue to support you with various events, formats, and resources to help your ideas gain long-term visibility.
