On April 29, 2025, a public event brought together donor organizations, local civil society leaders, and experts to explore the evolving landscape of nonprofits in Ukraine, organized by the Philanthropy in Ukraine. The presentation of the latest research—“Expectations Held and Challenges Faced by Grantors in Ukraine”—delved into how the donor–grantee relationship has transformed since the full-scale invasion. Notably, the Angels for Ukraine Charity Foundation was also present, underlining our commitment to supporting humanitarian initiatives and fostering transparency within the sector.

A Comprehensive Look at Shifting Priorities

The research provides an in-depth analysis of donor behavior and priorities in the midst of a national crisis. It highlights several key dynamics currently shaping Ukraine’s funding landscape:

• Partner Selection: Donors have placed increased emphasis on choosing partners with proven transparency and robust internal management systems. The research explains that local organizations with clear administrative structures and a documented history of effective project implementation are more likely to secure larger, long-term grants.
• Funding Priorities: In the wake of the invasion, donor funding has seen a marked shift—from supporting long-term democratic reforms and capacity-building initiatives to addressing urgent humanitarian needs. Initially, expedited grant mechanisms were introduced to respond to the immediate crisis. However, there is now a renewed focus on sustainable, resilient strategies that support Ukraine’s long-term recovery.
• Implementation of Localization: A central theme of the study is localization. While donors have increasingly expressed the need to channel more resources directly to local organizations—an approach that promises quicker and more efficient responses—this strategy faces significant internal challenges. The research indicates that complexities in internal donor processes and rigid reporting standards continue to hamper the practical realization of localization.

Key Research Insights

Drawing on a series of 16 semi-structured interviews with representatives from intergovernmental organizations, international funds, governmental development agencies, and regional bodies, the study is structured into several chapters that examine the current donor landscape:

• Organizational Capacity and Transparency: The first part of the document details how limited administrative capacities among many new NGOs complicate their ability to meet the rigorous reporting and due diligence requirements set by established donors. Yet, organizations that invest in transparent internal procedures are rewarded with more consistent support.
• Harmonization and Red Tape: A significant challenge highlighted in the research is the slow pace of harmonizing due diligence and reporting standards across various donor entities. This administrative red tape not only delays funding but also places a heavy burden on local organizations that are still adapting to international standards.
• Flexibility vs. Sustainability: While the initial phase of the conflict saw a commendable shift toward flexible, short-term funding, there is a growing consensus that long-term sustainability cannot be compromised. Donors are now striving to balance immediate needs with investments that build the future resilience of Ukraine’s civil society.

A Call to Engage

For those invested in the future of Ukraine’s civil society, this event was more than just a presentation—it was a call to action. By sharing critical insights on donor practices, the research invites both grassroots organizations and funding bodies to reimagine their approaches. If you are looking to explore ways to engage more effectively with donors in today’s fast-changing context, we encourage you to complete the registration form via the provided link and join the conversation.

The presence of organizations like the Angels for Ukraine Charity Foundation underscores the collective effort to innovate and overcome the challenges in accessing and managing grant funding. As Ukraine continues to navigate complex geopolitical realities, such discussions are vital to creating a roadmap that is not only responsive to current crises but also committed to long-term recovery and growth.

This event and research represent a significant step forward in understanding and improving the donor–grantee ecosystem in Ukraine. By addressing the challenges head-on—from administrative burdens and red tape to the promise of localization—the study lays the groundwork for more transparent, effective, and sustainable funding models that can empower Ukraine’s civil society for years to come.