Deadline: 12-Apr-2026
ILGA-Europe has launched a call for proposals inviting LGBTI organisations in Ukraine to join a two-year partnership programme (2026–2028) aimed at strengthening equality, democratic participation, and community resilience. Selected organisations will receive up to €50,000 over two years, along with strategic collaboration, capacity-building support, and participation in a peer cohort network. The programme focuses on empowering local organisations to advance LGBTI rights, support inclusive policies, and sustain democratic civic space in Ukraine.
What is the ILGA-Europe Partnership Programme?
The ILGA-Europe Partnership Programme is a two-year initiative designed to support LGBTI organisations in Ukraine through funding, collaboration, and strategic movement strengthening.
The programme recognizes the critical role local organisations play in defending human rights, supporting vulnerable communities, and strengthening democratic institutions, especially during periods of conflict and social uncertainty.
Rather than imposing strict project themes, the programme allows organisations to define their own strategies and priorities, acknowledging that local actors best understand the challenges and opportunities within their communities.
By combining financial support with collaborative learning and advocacy networks, the initiative seeks to strengthen the long-term impact of the LGBTI movement in Ukraine.
Background and Context
LGBTI organisations in Ukraine have been working for many years to promote equality, protect community members, and advance democratic values.
For more than a decade, ILGA-Europe has collaborated with Ukrainian organisations through:
-
Funding support
-
Advocacy initiatives
-
Movement-strengthening programmes
-
Strategic partnerships
Following the full-scale war that began in 2022, this collaboration expanded significantly to include:
-
Emergency humanitarian assistance
-
Crisis response funding
-
Community protection initiatives
The new 2026–2028 programme cycle builds on this long-standing partnership by providing structured support that combines funding with strategic cooperation and shared learning.
Programme Objectives
The programme aims to strengthen the capacity and influence of LGBTI organisations in Ukraine.
Key objectives include:
-
Strengthening the civic and political voice of the LGBTI movement
-
Supporting legal and policy reforms that promote equality
-
Encouraging inclusive public institutions
-
Increasing social acceptance and support networks for LGBTI communities
-
Supporting civil society efforts to protect democratic space
-
Encouraging collaboration across communities and sectors
Through these efforts, the programme contributes to building a more inclusive and resilient society.
Funding Amount and Duration
The programme provides financial support alongside strategic collaboration.
Key funding details include:
-
Up to €50,000 per organisation over two years
-
€25,000 per year in grant funding
-
Continuation into the second year depends on a grant renewal process
-
Four organisations will be selected for the programme
Funding is intended to support organisational strategies and activities that advance LGBTI equality and democratic participation.
Partnership and Collaboration Model
A key feature of the programme is its cohort-based partnership approach.
Selected organisations will participate in a network of peer LGBTI organisations working toward shared goals.
This collaborative model includes:
-
Peer learning opportunities
-
Strategic discussions and knowledge exchange
-
Online and in-person meetings
-
Movement-building activities
The initiative aims to ensure organisations benefit not only from funding but also from collective learning, collaboration, and strategic alignment.
By encouraging cooperation among organisations, the programme strengthens the overall LGBTI movement in Ukraine.
Who is Eligible?
The programme is open to LGBTI organisations operating within Ukraine that demonstrate strong commitment to community engagement and equality advocacy.
Eligible Applicants
Applicants must be:
-
LGBTI organisations based in Ukraine
-
Actively working to support LGBTI communities
-
Engaged in advocacy, community support, or equality initiatives
Key Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the programme, applicants must demonstrate:
-
Strong engagement with LGBTI communities
-
Accountability to the communities they represent
-
Collaboration with other LGBTI organisations
-
Cooperation with broader civil society actors
-
A clear role in advancing the LGBTI equality agenda
-
Adequate organisational and management capacity to manage a two-year grant
Organisations should also show their ability to implement meaningful activities and contribute to the broader movement.
Why This Programme Matters
The programme plays an important role in supporting human rights and democratic resilience in Ukraine.
Strengthening Civil Society
LGBTI organisations are key contributors to a vibrant civil society and democratic participation.
Protecting Human Rights
The programme supports efforts that promote equality, dignity, and legal protections for LGBTI individuals.
Supporting Communities During Conflict
In times of crisis, community organisations provide essential support networks and resources for vulnerable groups.
Encouraging Collaboration
The partnership model promotes cooperation and knowledge sharing among organisations, strengthening the overall movement.
How the Partnership Programme Works
Organisations selected for the programme participate in a structured two-year partnership framework.
Step 1: Application Submission
Interested organisations submit proposals describing their strategy for advancing LGBTI equality and strengthening civic engagement.
Step 2: Selection of Participants
Four organisations are selected based on:
-
Strategic vision
-
Community engagement
-
Organisational capacity
-
Potential impact
Step 3: Partnership and Funding
Selected organisations receive annual funding and begin participating in the partnership cohort.
Step 4: Collaboration and Learning
Participants engage in:
-
Peer exchange meetings
-
Strategic discussions
-
Joint learning sessions
These activities take place both online and in-person.
Step 5: Grant Renewal for Year Two
Continuation of funding for the second year depends on a review of progress and the renewal process.
Tips for a Strong Application
Applicants can improve their chances by focusing on several key elements.
Demonstrate community engagement
Show clear connections with LGBTI communities and their needs.
Present a clear strategy
Explain how your organisation will advance equality and democratic participation.
Highlight collaboration
Demonstrate partnerships with other organisations or civil society actors.
Show organisational capacity
Provide evidence that your organisation can effectively manage a two-year grant.
Focus on long-term impact
Explain how the work will strengthen equality and community resilience over time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these issues when preparing your application.
-
Submitting proposals without a clear strategy
-
Failing to demonstrate engagement with LGBTI communities
-
Lack of collaboration with other organisations
-
Weak organisational capacity or management structure
-
Overly vague project goals without measurable outcomes
Ensuring clarity and strategic focus will strengthen your application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the ILGA-Europe partnership programme for Ukraine?
It is a two-year funding and collaboration programme designed to strengthen LGBTI organisations and support equality, democratic participation, and community resilience in Ukraine.
2. How much funding is available?
Each selected organisation can receive up to €50,000 over two years, distributed as €25,000 per year.
3. How many organisations will be selected?
The programme will select four LGBTI organisations to participate in the partnership.
4. Are organisations outside Ukraine eligible?
No. Applicants must be based and operating in Ukraine.
5. Does the programme include collaboration opportunities?
Yes. Selected organisations will participate in a peer cohort network, enabling collaboration, knowledge exchange, and shared learning.
6. Is funding guaranteed for both years?
No. Funding for the second year is subject to a grant renewal process based on progress and evaluation.
7. What kind of impact does the programme aim to achieve?
The programme aims to strengthen LGBTI rights advocacy, democratic participation, inclusive policies, and community resilience in Ukraine.
Conclusion
The ILGA-Europe Partnership Programme (2026–2028) offers important support for LGBTI organisations working to strengthen equality and democratic participation in Ukraine. Through a combination of financial assistance, collaborative learning, and movement-building, the programme empowers organisations to lead impactful initiatives that advance human rights and community resilience.
By supporting local leadership and fostering cooperation among organisations, the initiative helps build a stronger and more inclusive civil society capable of addressing ongoing social and political challenges.
For more information, visit ILGA-Europe.
