The civil society sector is a key driver of democratic transformation in Ukraine. Yet for many newly established organizations, the first steps are a real challenge: lack of experience with projects, difficulty preparing high-quality grant applications, and limited knowledge of legal and management aspects of grant activities.
To overcome these barriers, we are launching the First Successful Grant Program. It is designed to give organizations a strong start — providing resources, knowledge, and support from experienced mentors. This is an opportunity for those just beginning their journey, but who already have ideas and ambitions to grow systematically and benefit their members and communities.
The Askold and Dir Fund implements the Program as part of the Strong Civil Society of Ukraine - a Driver towards Reforms and Democracy project, implemented by ISAR Ednannia, and funded by Norway and Sweden.
PROGRAM COMPONENTS:
1. Organizational Development School – a methodology for strengthening CSOs and charitable organizations, developed by ISAR Ednannia and repeatedly tested in practice. Participants will gain essential knowledge and practical tools to enhance the institutional capacity of their organizations.
Key training topics:
· Legal foundations of CSO/charity operations (statutes, documentation, tax reporting).
· Fundraising and donor trust management.
· Project design and grant application preparation.
· Project management (implementing change, monitoring, and evaluation).
· Effective communications (media, social networks, partnerships).
Format: Online and offline training, interactive sessions, and practical exercises.
2. Grant Support for Implementing a Socially Important Project
· Maximum grant amount: up to UAH 400,000.
· Project duration: 3–6 months.
· Eligible expenses:
o Organizing events and activities, purchasing services.
o Purchasing equipment, materials, and consumables.
o Renting venues and technical equipment.
o Administrative costs up to 20% (including team salaries).
3. Mentorship Support
Each selected organization will be assigned a personal mentor from ISAR Ednannia experts or partner organizations.
Mentors will help:
· Transform ideas into strong project proposals.
· Navigate programmatic and financial grant guidelines.
· Develop partnerships and engage community support.
4. Networking and Partnerships
Program participants will have the opportunity to join a professional community and showcase their achievements:
· Participation in events organized by the Askold and Dir Fund and ISAR Ednannia.
· Connecting with experienced organizations and potential partners.
· Sharing success stories at public events and through media.
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE:
- Teams from civil society and charitable organizations with up to 2 years of experience.
- Organizations operating in frontline regions will be given priority in selection.
- IMPORTANT! The program is designed for participants ready to complete all stages and develop their organization. Please register only if you are genuinely interested in the training itself, not just the grant, and honestly assess your plans to allow those committed to completing the full program and applying the knowledge in practice.
Apply for the program at the link.
Registration is open until October 27 at 18:00.
