Deadline: 27-Apr-2026
The Legacy of War Foundation Small Grants Program provides $5,000–$30,000 to Ukrainian civil society organisations and grassroots groups supporting civilians affected by the war. It prioritises marginalised communities, sustainable impact, and organisational capacity-building, with flexible funding for operational costs (up to 60%).
Overview of the Program
The Small Grants Program by the Legacy of War Foundation is designed to support Ukrainian organisations responding to humanitarian and social needs arising from the full-scale invasion.
It places strong emphasis on grassroots initiatives that are closest to affected communities and often underfunded by larger international donors.
Key Objectives
The program focuses on both immediate support and long-term sustainability.
Main Goals
- Support civilians affected by the war in Ukraine
- Strengthen grassroots and community-led organisations
- Reduce long-term dependence on external funding
- Fill critical gaps in humanitarian assistance
- Promote inclusion of marginalised groups
- Build organisational capacity and resilience
Priority Groups
The program gives special attention to vulnerable and underrepresented communities.
Priority Beneficiaries
- People with disabilities
- Veterans
- Women and girls
- LGBTQ+ individuals
- Communities underserved by international aid
- Organisations led by these groups
Funding Details
- Grant size: $5,000 – $30,000
- Eligible use: project costs + limited operational support
- Overheads/salaries allowed up to 60% of total grant
- Focus: flexible, grassroots funding
Eligible Applicants
A wide range of Ukrainian-based organisations can apply.
Eligible Entities
- Registered NGOs in Ukraine
- Public organisations
- Charitable foundations
- Unregistered volunteer groups (with potential support for formalisation)
Additional Requirement
- Strong focus on civilian assistance only
Eligible Costs
Funding can support both programmatic and operational needs.
Allowed Costs
- Project implementation expenses
- Stipends and volunteer support
- Staff salaries (within limits)
- Training and capacity-building activities
- Overhead and operational costs (≤60%)
Ineligible Applicants and Activities
Certain restrictions apply to ensure accountability and focus.
Not Eligible
- Organisations registered outside Ukraine (unless acting as fiscal sponsor)
- Individual cash assistance
- Politically affiliated organisations
- Organisations with annual income above $500,000
- Organisations with serious donor compliance issues
- Activities linked to military operations
Expected Outcomes
Projects are expected to:
- Deliver direct support to civilians
- Strengthen local response capacity
- Improve long-term organisational sustainability
- Reach underserved or crisis-affected communities
- Promote inclusion and equity in aid delivery
Strategic Importance
The program plays a key role in:
- Supporting grassroots humanitarian response in Ukraine
- Bridging gaps in international funding coverage
- Strengthening civil society resilience during conflict
- Empowering local organisations to lead recovery efforts
FAQs
Who can apply?
Ukrainian NGOs, charitable organisations, public organisations, and even unregistered volunteer groups.
What is the funding range?
Between $5,000 and $30,000.
Can funds be used for salaries?
Yes, including stipends and salaries, up to 60% of the total grant.
Are organisations outside Ukraine eligible?
Only if they act as fiscal sponsors for Ukrainian-led initiatives.
What types of projects are supported?
Civilian-focused humanitarian and community support projects, especially for vulnerable groups.
Conclusion
The Legacy of War Foundation Small Grants Program supports flexible, grassroots-led responses to the humanitarian impacts of war in Ukraine.
It prioritises inclusion, sustainability, and local leadership while ensuring critical funding reaches organisations working directly with affected civilians.
For more information, visit Legacy of War Foundation.