Deadline: 05-Jul-2026
The Transatlantic Foundation (TF), in cooperation with the Black Sea Trust for Regional Cooperation (BST) of the German Marshall Fund of the United States, has launched a grant programme to strengthen the resilience and sustainability of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in the Eastern Partnership (EaP) region. The grants support critical organizational needs, including security, digital infrastructure, legal assistance, communications, and operational improvements.
Selected organizations will receive EUR 7,000 for projects lasting up to five months.
Overview of the Transatlantic Foundation Resilience Grant Programme
The Transatlantic Foundation, together with the Black Sea Trust for Regional Cooperation, is supporting Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in the Eastern Partnership region to better withstand current and future challenges.
The programme focuses on strengthening organizational resilience by supporting investments that are often not covered through standard project funding.
The initiative helps CSOs maintain operations, protect staff, improve systems, and build long-term sustainability.
Programme Objectives
The grant programme aims to help civil society organizations:
- Strengthen organizational stability
- Improve security systems
- Adapt to changing environments
- Maintain essential operations
- Develop long-term resilience strategies
The programme supports practical investments that allow CSOs to continue their work effectively.
Areas of Support
Funding can support several critical organizational needs.
Staff Security and Well-Being
Support may include activities that improve:
- Staff safety
- Risk management
- Workplace well-being
- Organizational protection measures
The goal is to help CSOs maintain safe working environments.
Digital Security and IT Equipment
Grants may support:
- Digital security improvements
- Cybersecurity measures
- Technology upgrades
- IT equipment needs
These investments help organizations protect information and continue operating securely.
Expert Consultants and Technical Support
Organizations may use funding for:
- Specialist advice
- Organizational development support
- Technical expertise
- Strategic planning assistance
External expertise can help CSOs address operational challenges.
Legal Support
Funding may cover:
- Legal consultations
- Compliance support
- Risk management assistance
- Organizational legal needs
This helps organizations navigate changing legal and regulatory environments.
Communication and Visibility
Support may include:
- Communication tools
- Public outreach systems
- Information management
- Strategic communication activities
Strong communication helps CSOs maintain public engagement and partnerships.
Grant Amount and Duration
Each selected organization will receive:
EUR 7,000
Maximum project duration:
Five months
The funding is designed for targeted resilience-building activities with clear organizational benefits.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)
- Non-governmental organizations
- Civic initiatives with organizational structures
Applicants must:
- Have an operational connection to Eastern Partnership countries, or
- Be registered in an Eastern Partnership country
Organizations must demonstrate a clear need for support that improves their resilience.
Eligible Countries
The programme supports organizations connected to the six Eastern Partnership countries:
What Types of Projects Are Supported?
Strong proposals may include projects that:
- Improve organizational security
- Upgrade digital systems
- Strengthen internal processes
- Protect staff and operations
- Increase long-term sustainability
The programme focuses on essential infrastructure and organizational capacity rather than regular project activities.
How the Grant Works
Step 1: Identify Organizational Needs
Applicants should assess challenges affecting their organization, such as:
- Security risks
- Digital vulnerabilities
- Operational gaps
- Legal concerns
- Communication limitations
Step 2: Develop a Resilience Plan
The proposal should explain:
- The problem being addressed
- Planned activities
- Expected improvements
- How funding strengthens sustainability
Step 3: Submit a Proposal
Applicants should provide:
- Organizational background
- Description of needs
- Project plan
- Budget details
Step 4: Implement the Project
Selected organizations use the grant to complete resilience-focused activities within five months.
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on:
Relevance and Urgency
Reviewers consider whether the proposed support addresses an important and immediate organizational need.
Feasibility
Projects should include:
- Clear objectives
- Realistic activities
- Achievable timelines
Impact on Organizational Resilience
Strong proposals demonstrate how funding will improve:
- Stability
- Security
- Operational capacity
- Long-term sustainability
Budget Effectiveness
Budgets should be:
- Reasonable
- Clearly explained
- Connected to project activities
Why This Programme Matters
Civil society organizations often operate in challenging environments where security, funding, and operational risks can affect their ability to continue their work.
This programme helps CSOs by supporting:
- Stronger organizational systems
- Better protection measures
- Improved digital capacity
- Sustainable operations
By investing in organizational resilience, the programme helps civil society actors remain effective during periods of uncertainty.
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
Proposing Regular Programme Activities
The grant focuses on organizational resilience, not standard project delivery.
Applications should focus on:
- Infrastructure
- Security
- Capacity strengthening
- Sustainability
Weak Explanation of Need
Applicants should clearly describe:
- Current challenges
- Why support is needed now
- Expected improvements
Unclear Budget
Budgets should directly connect costs with resilience outcomes.
Limited Organizational Impact
Projects should show benefits beyond a single activity and explain how they strengthen the organization overall.
Tips for a Strong Application
Applicants should:
- Identify urgent organizational risks
- Explain long-term benefits
- Prioritize essential investments
- Create realistic implementation plans
- Show how funding improves sustainability
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Transatlantic Foundation Resilience Grant?
It is a funding opportunity supporting Eastern Partnership CSOs to strengthen security, sustainability, and operational capacity.
How much funding is available?
Each selected organization receives EUR 7,000.
How long can projects last?
Projects can last up to five months.
Who can apply?
Civil Society Organizations connected to or registered in Eastern Partnership countries can apply.
What costs can the grant support?
Funding can support security, digital systems, IT equipment, legal support, expert assistance, communication, and other resilience-focused needs.
Are regular project activities eligible?
No. The grant focuses on organizational resilience and essential investments rather than standard programme activities.
How are applications evaluated?
Applications are reviewed based on relevance, urgency, feasibility, expected impact, and budget cost-effectiveness.
Conclusion
The Transatlantic Foundation Resilience Grants provide critical support for Civil Society Organizations across the Eastern Partnership region.
By funding security, digital capacity, legal support, communication, and organizational improvements, the programme helps CSOs build stronger foundations and continue contributing to their communities despite ongoing challenges.
For more information, visit GMFUS.
