The grant competition aims to establish strategic partnerships with expert civil society organizations (CSOs) to strengthen local CSOs.
Each year, three CSOs will be selected to become strategic partners of the Project and will cooperate with its team to achieve objectives. As part of the competition, applicants are expected to propose their solutions and activities aligned with one of the three thematic lots:
Lot 1: Recovery – focused on strengthening local CSOs in the area of social recovery processes. Projects should support organizations in creating and implementing sustainable socio-economic development mechanisms at the local level. Key areas of activity may include:
- Building the capacity of local CSOs to restore infrastructure and services.
- Engaging citizens in decision-making processes related to community recovery and development.
- Enhancing CSOs’ capacity to participate in local planning and policy-making for recovery.
- Establishing partnerships between local CSOs, authorities, and international donors to ensure efficient use of resources.
Lot 2: Reforms – aims to strengthen the capacity of local CSOs in designing, implementing, and monitoring reforms. Projects under this lot should contribute to:
- Increasing the role of local CSOs in public oversight of government activities.
- Training and upskilling CSO representatives in advocacy, strategic planning, and engagement with public institutions.
- Developing sustainable mechanisms and platforms for partnerships and dialogue between civil society, government bodies, and international organizations.
Lot 3: European Integration – aims to enhance the participation of local CSOs in integrating European standards at the local level. Projects under this lot may include:
- Raising awareness among local CSOs about European standards across various sectors (governance, environment, education, etc.).
- Organizing trainings, educational programs, and internships for CSO representatives on the implementation of European practices.
- Developing networking cooperation between Ukrainian CSOs and European partners.
- Supporting the participation of local CSOs in European Union programs and initiatives.
More about the grant competition (in Ukrainian).
Results 2025
The 2025 round of the grant competition for strategic partners within the EU Unity4Community Project, implemented by ISAR Ednannia with the support of the European Union, has concluded. The competition showed strong interest from civil society representatives − 68 contestants submitted applications.
Following a thorough selection process, we are pleased to announce our strategic partners in three key areas:
➡️ Recovery: Your Support Charitable Foundation will work on strengthening local CSOs in affected oblasts, providing training and support for initiatives aimed at social recovery and community cohesion.
➡️ Reforms: We Build Ukraine think tank will expand civil society organizations’ participation in the development and implementation of local development strategies, promoting more active citizen engagement in decision-making processes.
➡️ European Integration: All-Ukrainian Association of Local Governments «Association of Amalgamated Territorial Communities» will focus on enhancing collaboration between CSOs and local authorities and implementing European standards and practices for effective community recovery.
