The International Renaissance Foundation’s Impulse Programme offers grants to Ukrainian civil society organisations to strengthen socio-economic resilience in war-affected regions. The initiative supports community-led recovery, inclusive development, and capacity-building, combining funding with mentorship, training, and networking to foster local change-makers.

Impulse Programme: Empowering Civil Society for Ukraine’s Resilience and Recovery

Overview

The Impulse Programme by the International Renaissance Foundation is designed to support local Ukrainian organisations in regions impacted by war. The initiative focuses on strengthening socio-economic resilience, promoting inclusive recovery, and enabling civil society to play a central role in post-conflict rebuilding.

Who is Eligible?

• Local civil society organisations operating in Ukraine

• Projects must target regions directly affected by conflict

• Organisations should demonstrate capacity to engage vulnerable groups and foster community-driven development

Focus Areas:

• Community recovery initiatives

• Gender equality and social inclusion

• Environmental sustainability

• Transparent governance and civic participation

Funding Details

• Grant Size: Up to 2,500,000 hryvnias per project (first stage of competition)

• Number of Grants: Support for 2–3 organisations per cycle

• Funding includes institutional capacity-building, training, mentorship, and networking opportunities

• Grants are intended to enable projects that address specific regional needs and strengthen local civil society

Project Objectives

Eligible projects should aim to:

1. Enhance local capacities of communities and organisations

2. Engage vulnerable populations in recovery and development processes

3. Promote inclusive governance, transparency, and meaningful participation

4. Advance gender equality and environmental sustainability

5. Foster social cohesion and community resilience

How to Apply

1. Identify a project aligned with the programme’s objectives and regional focus.

2. Prepare a project proposal including:

   • Goals and expected impact

   • Target groups and geographic focus

   • Planned activities and timelines

   • Budget and resource allocation

3. Submit the application through the Impulse Programme portal or official submission channels.

4. Successful applicants will receive grants, alongside mentorship, training, and networking support.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Clearly demonstrate how the project addresses specific local needs

• Show capacity for community engagement and measurable outcomes

• Include plans for long-term sustainability beyond the grant period

• Highlight opportunities for collaboration with local authorities and other stakeholders

Expected Outcomes

• Strengthened local civil society organisations capable of leading recovery efforts

• Increased socio-economic resilience in war-affected regions

• Improved participation, transparency, and governance at the community level

• Promotion of inclusive development, gender equality, and environmental stewardship

FAQ

1. Who can apply for the Impulse Programme grants?
Local civil society organisations operating in conflict-affected regions of Ukraine.

2. What is the maximum grant amount?
Up to 2,500,000 hryvnias per project.

3. How many organisations will receive funding?
Two to three organisations per grant cycle.

4. Are there additional benefits beyond funding?
Yes. Applicants receive mentorship, training, and networking support to strengthen institutional capacity.

5. What types of projects are prioritized?
Projects that enhance community resilience, engage vulnerable groups, and promote inclusive governance, gender equality, and environmental sustainability.

6. Can organisations outside the directly affected regions apply?
The programme prioritizes organisations working in regions directly impacted by conflict.

7. Is collaboration with local authorities recommended?
Yes, projects that actively engage local authorities and stakeholders are more likely to demonstrate sustainable impact.

Conclusion

The Impulse Programme provides a unique opportunity for Ukrainian civil society organisations to drive meaningful recovery in war-affected areas. By combining financial support with capacity-building, mentorship, and networking, the initiative empowers local actors to become resilient, inclusive change-makers contributing to Ukraine’s long-term recovery and integration with broader European frameworks.