Mini-Grant Competition to Strengthen Social Enterprises by Civil Society Organizations (Ukraine)

The Kirovohrad Regional Organization of the All-Ukrainian NGO “Association for Promoting Self-Organization of the Population” has launched a mini-grant competition to strengthen existing social enterprises run by civil society organizations. The program provides up to UAH 86,000 for equipment purchases, supports operational growth, and encourages participation in the Network of Volunteer Centers in Ukraine.

Overview of the Mini-Grant Program

The Kirovohrad Regional Organization of the All-Ukrainian public organization “Association for Promoting Self-Organization of the Population” has announced a targeted mini-grant competition for civil society institutions operating social enterprises. The initiative focuses on reinforcing existing social entrepreneurship activities rather than creating new enterprises, with an emphasis on practical, equipment-based support.

Purpose and Key Objectives

The competition is designed to enhance the operational capacity of social enterprises that are already active within public or charitable organizations. The main objectives include:

• Strengthening existing social enterprises within civil society institutions

• Supporting sustainable community-based production and service delivery

• Applying and reinforcing the social entrepreneurship model

• Purchasing essential equipment to improve operational efficiency

• Encouraging collaboration through the Network of Volunteer Centers

What Is Social Entrepreneurship in This Context?

Social entrepreneurship under this program refers to income-generating activities operated by civil society or charitable organizations that address social needs while reinvesting profits into community development. Eligible enterprises must already be functioning and providing tangible services or products to local residents.

Funding Amount and Eligible Costs

Selected organizations may apply for funding of up to UAH 86,000.00. Grant funds may be used exclusively for:

• Purchasing equipment required to strengthen an existing social enterprise
  Funds may not be used to launch new initiatives, cover general operating expenses unrelated to equipment, or support non-operational concepts.

Project Duration and Timeline

The implementation period for supported projects must not exceed 3.5 months. This short timeframe is intended to ensure rapid deployment of resources and quick improvements in social enterprise operations at the community level.

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

Eligible applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

• Be a registered civil society or charitable organization in Ukraine

• Operate an active and functioning social enterprise

• Have existing production facilities or provide ongoing services to community members

• Apply the social entrepreneurship model in their activities

• Demonstrate interest in joining the Network of Volunteer Centers
  Organizations seeking funding to start a new social enterprise are not eligible.

Why This Mini-Grant Matters

Many civil society-led social enterprises face capacity constraints that limit their impact. This mini-grant program addresses those challenges by providing targeted equipment support, helping organizations scale services, improve efficiency, and strengthen their role in local economic and social development.

How the Mini-Grant Competition Works

Applicants should follow these steps:

1. Confirm eligibility by ensuring the social enterprise is already operational

2. Identify equipment needs that directly strengthen enterprise activities

3. Prepare a clear proposal outlining the purpose and expected impact of the equipment purchase

4. Demonstrate interest in participating in the Network of Volunteer Centers

5. Submit the application in line with the competition guidelines

Network of Volunteer Centers Requirement

A key condition of participation is the applicant’s demonstrated interest in joining the Network of Volunteer Centers coordinated by the organizing association. The network serves as a platform for:

• Coordination among volunteer-driven initiatives

• Sharing best practices and resources

• Strengthening community engagement and cooperation

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid:

• Applying without an active, functioning social enterprise

• Proposing to use funds for non-equipment-related expenses

• Submitting concepts for new enterprises rather than strengthening existing ones

• Failing to demonstrate interest in the Network of Volunteer Centers

• Overestimating capacity within the 3.5-month implementation period

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the maximum grant amount available?

The maximum funding available per organization is UAH 86,000.00.

Can new social enterprises apply?

No. Only organizations with an already operating social enterprise are eligible.

What types of expenses are eligible?

Grant funds may be used exclusively for the purchase of necessary equipment.

How long can the project last?

The implementation period must not exceed 3.5 months.

Who is organizing the competition?

The competition is organized by the Kirovohrad Regional Organization of the All-Ukrainian NGO “Association for Promoting Self-Organization of the Population.”

Is joining the Network of Volunteer Centers mandatory?

Applicants must demonstrate interest in joining the network as a condition of participation.

Conclusion

This mini-grant competition offers practical, targeted support to civil society organizations operating social enterprises in Ukraine. By focusing on equipment purchases, short implementation timelines, and collaboration through the Network of Volunteer Centers, the program strengthens community-based enterprises and enhances their long-term social and economic impact.