The event highlighted the importance of partnership and exchange of experience for the further development of civil society in Ukraine. East Europe Foundation supports local initiatives and works with partners to create even more effective conditions for the development of civil society.

On February 21, an important regional event, Meeting for Change, took place. It became a platform for local organizations and donors to discuss partnerships, local cooperation, and support for civil society in Ukraine. East Europe Foundation not only participated in the event but also actively contributed to the discussions, emphasizing the importance of effective cooperation in the face of current challenges.

Networking and New Opportunities

A true partnership emerges through live communication when each participant can not only share their ideas but also find common ground for future cooperation. During the event, organized by the National Network for the Development of Local Philanthropy, local organizations and donors had the opportunity to exchange views, share experiences, and look for ways to implement future initiatives. Such discussions create the basis for new partnerships that can later develop into effective joint projects.

Networking was one of the key aspects of the event. Participants had the opportunity to present their initiatives, discuss ideas, establish professional contacts, share knowledge, and find new opportunities for cooperation.

Opportunities for Local Organizations

Representatives of East Europe Foundation presented three current programs under which organizations can receive grant support:

✔ Impulse is a three-year project of the International Renaissance Foundation and East Europe Foundation with support from the Norwegian Agency for Development and Cooperation (Norad) and in partnership with Sweden (Styrelsen för Internationellt Utvecklingssamarbete) aimed at strengthening civil society for the restoration of Ukraine.

✔ Phoenix: The Power of Communities is a project implemented by East Europe Foundation with support from the European Union. Its goal is to support and develop civil society organizations to rebuild the affected communities and promote Ukraine’s European integration.

✔ Capable and Resistant Program is implemented with financial support from Switzerland to strengthen the resilience and effectiveness of civil society organizations that support the affected population. The program includes grants in the amount of UAH 400,000 to 4,000,000, institutional development, online courses, and experience exchange.

The participants also learned about the possibilities of the Zrozumilo! educational online platform, which is a free online education resource for representatives of the public sector, state and local authorities, educators, high school and university students, and generally anyone interested in self-development and gaining quality knowledge.

The Meeting for Change has once again confirmed the importance of partnership and exchange of experience for the further development of civil society in Ukraine. East Europe Foundation continues to support local initiatives and work with partners to create an effective environment for the development of civil society.