In addition to official government programs, civic organizations, informal groups, and community centers in Bulgaria can also find financial support for their ideas through a number of private funds, corporate initiatives, and non-governmental platforms.
Below we have collected the most popular opportunities for financing projects in the fields of ecology, education, culture, and social development:
Corporate grants and funds
VIVACOM Regional Grant
One of the most established socially responsible initiatives in Bulgaria, implemented jointly with the Bulgarian Center for Nonprofit Law. VIVACOM Regional Grant supports projects by civic organizations, community centers, and schools with a focus on education and environmental protection in local communities. [1]
“Fantastico do teb”
The retail chain’s fund provides grant funding for projects by organizations across the country. The areas in which the annual “Fantastico do teb” competitions are held include “Education and Culture,” “Environment,” and “Sports.”
Environmental Initiatives and Microfinance
Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation (BBF)
The Foundation is a key player in the preservation of Bulgarian nature, working on conservation, educational and research projects. The Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation periodically administers funds for small projects supporting local conservation organizations and sustainable regional development.
Ecological Association “Za Zemiata”
The organization is known for its iconic “Do It Yourself” green ideas competition. Through it, the Ecological Association “Za Zemiata” provides flexible micro-grants to citizens, informal groups and NGOs aimed at reducing household waste and environmental causes.
PUDOEP (Environmental Protection Activities Management Enterprise) (New)
A state structure under the Ministry of Environment that regularly finances environmental projects. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides grants to community centers, schools, kindergartens and municipalities during the national campaign “For a Clean Environment”. [1]
Public and Specialized Funds
Bulgarian Fund for Women (BFW)
The only Bulgarian organization that supports local NGOs and activists working to achieve equality and protect women’s rights. The Bulgarian Fund for Women provides targeted grants to combat violence, empower girls and promote leadership throughout the country.
Civil Society Support Fund (Norwegian Programme / EEA Financial Mechanism)
This large-scale international program, fully funded by Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein, supports the long-term development of the non-governmental sector in Bulgaria. The new Civil Society Fund in Bulgaria provides significant grant funding for projects aimed at protecting human rights, empowering vulnerable groups, engaging youth with climate change and promoting active citizenship at the local level. [1, 2, 3]
Youth Initiative Fund (to local municipalities)
Many municipalities in Bulgaria (such as Varna, Plovdiv, Burgas, etc.) maintain their own municipal funds that provide small grants specifically for projects of local youth organizations and informal groups.
If your organization is looking for partnerships to apply for any of the above programs, do not hesitate to contact us for joint initiatives.