Deadline: 08-Apr-2026
The NGO Southern Development Strategy (SDS), in partnership with Save the Children and supported by Danida, invites applications for community restoration projects in the Mykolaiv region. Grants up to UAH 1,022,085 support inclusive, needs-based initiatives combining infrastructure improvements and social services, prioritizing vulnerable groups and fostering local development. Eligible civil society organizations must be legally registered in Ukraine, non-profit, and have a strong track record in grant-funded projects.
About the Grant Competition
The competition focuses on the Area-Based Recovery Model (ABRM), which integrates infrastructure rebuilding with social service development to ensure community participation, inclusion, and needs-driven planning.
Key objectives:
- Restore infrastructure while improving access to social services
- Promote social cohesion and inclusion of vulnerable groups
- Support children, youth, women, elderly, persons with disabilities, internally displaced persons, ethnic communities, and other local groups
- Foster collaboration with education, social protection, cultural, and municipal institutions
Funding Details
- Maximum Grant Amount: UAH 1,022,085
- Number of Grants: 14
- Project Duration: 3 to 18 months
- Scope: Projects combining infrastructure improvements with social innovation initiatives
- Target Area: Mykolaiv region, Ukraine
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Legally registered in Ukraine
- Hold non-profit status (NGO or foundation)
- Operate primarily within the Mykolaiv region
- Have no outstanding legal or financial liabilities
- Demonstrate institutional capacity to manage grant-funded projects
- Preferably have minimum three years’ experience implementing grants, though smaller or newer organizations may be considered if they demonstrate strong capabilities
Program Requirements
Applicants are expected to:
- Align proposals with real community needs, developed in consultation with residents and, where possible, local authorities
- Incorporate inclusive planning processes that engage target groups in shaping project ideas and strategies
- Ensure broad access to results for the community
- Participate in training and advocacy activities within the program framework
- Align project goals with local or regional development strategies
Eligible Activities
The grant supports initiatives that:
- Rebuild or improve infrastructure essential for community recovery
- Develop or enhance high-quality social services
- Promote social cohesion and inclusion for vulnerable populations
- Strengthen collaboration with local institutions, including education, culture, and municipal services
- Implement innovative community-driven solutions to local challenges
How to Apply / Submission Process
- Confirm Eligibility: Verify that your organization meets all legal and operational requirements.
- Engage Communities: Consult residents, local authorities, and target groups to identify priority needs.
- Develop Project Proposal: Include objectives, activities, timeline, budget, expected outcomes, and impact metrics.
- Submit Application: Follow the official SDS submission guidelines.
- Participate in Program Activities: Engage in training, advocacy, and collaborative processes as required.
Benefits of Participation
- Access to significant funding to implement community restoration initiatives
- Opportunity to address real needs of vulnerable populations in Mykolaiv
- Strengthen organizational capacity and local networks
- Contribute to sustainable, inclusive community development
FAQs
1. Who can apply for the grant?
Civil society organizations, including NGOs and foundations, legally registered in Ukraine and operating in the Mykolaiv region.
2. What is the maximum grant amount?
UAH 1,022,085 per project, with 14 grants available.
3. How long can projects last?
Projects may run for 3 to 18 months, depending on scope and complexity.
4. Which groups are prioritized?
Children, youth, women, elderly, persons with disabilities, internally displaced persons, ethnic communities, and other vulnerable community groups.
5. Are new organizations eligible?
Yes, but they must demonstrate strong institutional capacity and qualified staff. Three years of prior grant experience is preferred.
6. What types of activities are supported?
Projects combining infrastructure improvement and social innovation, fostering inclusion, cohesion, and collaboration with local institutions.
7. How should proposals be developed?
Proposals must be needs-driven, inclusive, and developed in consultation with local communities and authorities.
Conclusion
The SDS grant competition, in partnership with Save the Children and Danida, empowers civil society organizations to restore and strengthen communities in the Mykolaiv region. By funding initiatives that integrate infrastructure improvements with social services and inclusive planning, this program fosters sustainable, community-driven recovery that addresses the needs of the most vulnerable populations.
For more information, visit Public Space.
