The International Renaissance Foundation has announced the launch of a small grants competition within the framework of the Impulse project – an initiative designed to strengthen civil society’s role in Ukraine’s recovery and democratic transformation.
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The Impulse project is part of the broader initiative “Empowering Civil Society for Resilience and Recovery in Ukraine”, which aims to enhance the capacity of Ukrainian civil society organisations (CSOs) to engage in early recovery, sustainable development, and democratic reform. The competition focuses on supporting local and regional initiatives that promote inclusion, gender equality, environmental sustainability, and the involvement of vulnerable groups in decision-making processes.
The eligible regions include 12 oblasts most affected by the war, such as Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, Kharkiv, and Zaporizhzhia. Applications are open to civil society organisations, charitable foundations, unions, and community self-organisation bodies officially registered or relocated to areas controlled by the Government of Ukraine.
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In addition to financial support ranging from UAH 1 to 1.5 million per project, selected organisations will participate in a mandatory capacity-building programme, which includes trainings, internships, expert consultations, and access to the “Zrozumilo!” online learning platform. Winners will also join regional civil society networks and advocacy activities.
Application deadlines are set for 15:00 (Kyiv time) on: 2 April, 26 August and 25 November 2025; and 3 April and 27 August 2026. Results will be announced approximately six weeks after each deadline. Supported projects are expected to start about two months later.
Applications must be submitted exclusively via the IRF’s electronic system. Proposals submitted by other means or after the deadline will not be considered.
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