ROVA Project 2026: Funding for Roma Civil Society Organizations (Romania)

Deadline: 16-Mar-2026

The Nevo Parudimos Association has launched the 2026 ROVA Project Call for Proposals to support Roma and pro-Roma civil society organizations in Romania. The call provides grant funding of up to EUR 25,000 per project to strengthen Roma communities, promote EU fundamental values, and advance equality, inclusion, and human rights.

Overview

The Nevo Parudimos Association has officially launched the 2026 call for proposals under the ROVA Project, inviting Roma and pro-Roma civil society organizations that are registered and active in Romania to apply for project funding.

The call aims to support initiatives that promote European Union values, strengthen civil society capacity, and improve the protection and realization of fundamental rights for Roma communities.

General Goal of the Call

The overall goal of the ROVA Project is to strengthen the capacities of Roma and pro-Roma civil society organizations and Roma communities across Romania.

This is achieved through actions that raise awareness, monitor, and support the implementation of EU core values, including respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law, and human rights, with a specific focus on minority rights.

Specific Objectives

Funded projects are expected to contribute to one or more of the following objectives:

• Promoting access to fundamental rights for Roma communities

• Advancing equality and social inclusion of Roma

• Encouraging a human rights-based approach to Roma-related policies and practices

• Combating anti-gypsyism and discrimination

• Monitoring the implementation of national Roma integration strategies at the national level

• Strengthening cooperation between Roma communities and public institutions

• Enhancing collaboration between Roma and non-Roma civil society organizations

Priority Themes and Focus Areas

Projects supported under this call should align with:

• European Union fundamental values

• Human rights and minority rights protection

• Equality, non-discrimination, and social inclusion

• Civic participation and democratic engagement

• Accountability and monitoring of public policies affecting Roma communities

Proposals that demonstrate strong community involvement and long-term impact are particularly encouraged.

Funding Available

The total budget allocated for the 2026 ROVA Project call is EUR 250,000.

Each selected project may receive a maximum grant of EUR 25,000.

Applicants are not required to provide any own contribution, including financial resources or volunteer work. The absence or presence of co-funding will not influence the evaluation score.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

• Be a Roma or pro-Roma civil society organization

• Be legally registered in Romania

• Operate on a not-for-profit basis

• Be active in fields related to Roma rights, inclusion, or community development

Organizations may carry out remunerated economic activities and employ staff, provided that:

• Any income generated is not distributed to members, founders, or managers

• Economic activities remain secondary to the organization’s mission

• Activities are aligned with the organization’s non-profit objectives

Governance and Transparency Requirements

Applicant organizations must demonstrate transparent and participatory governance.

Key requirements include:

• Elected or appointed leadership structures

• Accountability of leadership to members and supporters

• Compliance with national legislation on reporting obligations

• Publication of annual activity and financial reports

• Public accessibility to information about organizational activities

These requirements ensure credibility, accountability, and good governance within supported civil society organizations.

Newly Established Organizations

Newly established organizations that are not yet legally required to publish annual reports may still apply.

Instead of formal reports, such organizations must provide:

• A description of initial activities carried out

• Planned actions and project objectives

• Measures to ensure transparency and accountability moving forward

Expected Impact of Funded Projects

Projects supported under the ROVA Project 2026 call are expected to:

• Strengthen Roma civil society capacity

• Increase awareness of EU values and human rights

• Improve access to rights and public services for Roma

• Reduce discrimination and anti-gypsyism

• Enhance cooperation between communities and institutions

• Support inclusive and democratic participation

Why This Call Matters

The ROVA Project plays a critical role in:

• Empowering Roma and pro-Roma organizations

• Supporting grassroots human rights initiatives

• Promoting equality and social cohesion in Romania

• Strengthening monitoring of national Roma integration policies

• Building sustainable partnerships between civil society and public authorities

Key Takeaways for Applicants

• Maximum grant per project: EUR 25,000

• Total call budget: EUR 250,000

• No co-funding or own contribution required

• Open to Roma and pro-Roma NGOs registered in Romania

• Strong focus on EU values, human rights, and Roma inclusion

• Transparent governance and accountability are essential

Conclusion

The ROVA Project 2026 Call for Proposals offers a valuable funding opportunity for Roma and pro-Roma civil society organizations in Romania to advance human rights, equality, and social inclusion. By supporting community-led initiatives and strengthening civil society capacity, the call contributes to the long-term empowerment of Roma communities and the promotion of European fundamental values.

For more information, visit Nevo Parudimos Association.