Deadline: 16-Mar-2026
The ROVA – Roma for Change Project 2026 invites Roma and pro-Roma civil society organizations in Hungary to submit initiatives promoting EU values, human rights, and social inclusion. The program supports projects that empower Roma communities, monitor implementation of the National Roma Strategy, and foster cooperation between Roma and non-Roma organizations. Grants of up to €25,000 per project are available for initiatives lasting up to 13 months.
Overview
The ROVA – Roma for Change Project supports Roma and pro-Roma civil society organizations in Hungary to advance European Union values, fundamental rights, and community empowerment. This funding opportunity enables organizations to implement projects that:
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Promote the human rights perspective of Roma communities
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Enhance social inclusion and equality
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Monitor the implementation of the National Roma Strategy at local, regional, or national levels
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Foster cooperation between Roma and non-Roma civil society organizations
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Combat anti-Gypsyism and discrimination
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Improve access to fundamental rights for Roma communities
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Strengthen collaboration between Roma communities and public institutions
The call is managed by the Autonómia Foundation under the ROVA project, emphasizing values such as human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law, and respect for minority rights.
Funding Details
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Total Budget for Hungary: €250,000
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Maximum Grant per Project: €25,000
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Project Duration: Up to 13 months (from September 2026 to 2027)
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Co-funding Requirements: None specified
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Non-governmental Roma or pro-Roma civil society organizations registered and operating in Hungary
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Must not have received funding under the ROVA 2025 call
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Meet organizational and transparency criteria defined by the Autonómia Foundation
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Consortium applications are not allowed
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Each organization may submit only one project proposal
Why It Matters
The ROVA project in Hungary strengthens Roma civil society and community participation by:
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Promoting fundamental human rights and EU values
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Encouraging active citizenship and empowerment of Roma communities
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Supporting monitoring and advocacy for the National Roma Strategy
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Fostering collaboration and trust between Roma and non-Roma organizations
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Combating anti-Roma discrimination and enhancing social cohesion
How to Apply / How it Works
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Confirm Eligibility: Ensure your organization meets all eligibility criteria.
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Prepare Proposal: Develop a project addressing focus areas, including objectives, activities, and expected outcomes.
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Submit Application: Only one project proposal per organization is allowed; consortia are not accepted.
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Evaluation: Applications are assessed on alignment with ROVA objectives, feasibility, impact, and promotion of EU values and human rights.
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Grant Award: Successful applicants receive funding of up to €25,000 to implement projects for up to 13 months starting September 2026.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Submitting more than one proposal per organization
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Applying as a consortium
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Proposing projects that do not clearly promote EU values or human rights
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Failing to monitor or align with the National Roma Strategy
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Including ineligible organizations or projects
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the maximum funding per project?
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€25,000 per project.
2. Who can apply for this ROVA 2026 call?
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Roma or pro-Roma non-governmental organizations registered and active in Hungary.
3. Are consortium applications allowed?
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No, only single-organization applications are eligible.
4. Can organizations funded under the 2025 ROVA call apply?
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No, previous recipients are not eligible.
5. What is the project duration?
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Up to 13 months, starting from September 2026.
6. What areas should the projects focus on?
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Human rights, social inclusion, equality, anti-discrimination, access to fundamental rights, EU values, and cooperation between Roma and non-Roma organizations.
7. Is co-funding required?
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No co-funding or in-kind contribution is required.
Conclusion
The ROVA – Roma for Change 2026 initiative provides an important opportunity for Roma and pro-Roma civil society organizations in Hungary to advance human rights, EU values, and social inclusion. By empowering communities, fostering cooperation, and combating discrimination, the program supports sustainable, community-driven change across local, regional, and national levels.
For more information, visit Autonómia Foundation.