The Fund is not a charity organization, and we consider ourselves to be more of an investor. Our object of investments is a process of a gradual transformation of Belarusian society, since namely progressive reforms constitute the articulated interest of the majority of Belarusians. We want our investments to work with maximum effectiveness, in order that: 1) needs and interests of a target group could be represented in the best possible way, and 2) our partner organizations could develop themselves, ensuring the safety of our investments.

Therefore, our technical approach is based on a comprehensive work with Belarusian partners: support of civic activities is provided in parallel to capacity building and organizational development of a local partner. Priorities of such development are defined according to a partner’s needs yet, as a rule, include:

• Strategic planning and organizational development;
• Assistance in professionalization of statutory activities and services;
• Design of communication strategy, mechanisms and products;
• Development of monitoring and evaluation systems;
• Financial and budget planning and management.

We are looking forward to working with citizens, initiatives and organizations, which share our understanding of the situation in Belarus, namely:

• Mission of civil society organization is not in the attaining political power, but in the addressing of pressing needs of their target groups, local communities and of the society as a whole. Leadership in the third sector is defined by the quality and effectiveness of work on issues of public interest, but not by political ambitions;
• Belarusian society is a dynamic structure, where transformational processes are taking place. This fact requires systematic correlation of approaches, priorities and methods of work of civil society organizations;
• Progressive transformation is impossible without the competition of ideas, their open statement and public discussion. Transformation is impossible without influence, which, in its turn, is just an illusion without a professional approach to work, work with mainstream audience, as well as, open and pertinent communication with all parties involved.

Sectorial approach

We view Belarusian civil society not as a monolithic structure with common problems and needs, but as a composite of sectors. Each sector includes organizations that represent interests and needs of different target groups. As an example, we may single out such sectors as environmental, social, educational, human rights sector, community development sector, mass media sector, analytical sector, etc.

When applied, this approach means that we strive to work with those organizations, which understand (or are willing to understand) their role in this or that sector, place their priority on the needs of a target group and work not only for good of the development of their structure, but of the whole sector, as well.

This approach reflects our understanding of the variety of issues, problems and interests, which exist in Belarusian civil society, and our desire to support those initiatives, which are ready for professional and open work, as much as it is possible.

Our values

• Impartiality and priority of interests of Belarusian society;
• Responsibility;
• Professionalism;
• Openness and transparency, as much as it is possible.

More detailed information about our understanding of the situation and approaches you may receive by using a feedback box. To get more detailed information about conditions of applying to the Fund for support, please, go the Submit a project section