2023 marks a significant milestone for the Western Balkans Fund (WBF) as it successfully achieves one of its main objectives: the diversification of grants for the Western Balkans region through the implementation of MOVE Grants. This momentous achievement signifies WBF’s commitment to fostering regional development, cooperation, and inclusivity.
MOVE Grants, designed as a dynamic and flexible rolling mechanism, aim to bring WBF closer to the people and communities of the Western Balkans. By adopting this approach, WBF ensures that ideas and needs are addressed in a timely and predictive manner, effectively meeting the evolving demands of the region. This innovative mechanism reflects WBF’s commitment to adaptability and responsiveness.
As 2023 serves as a pilot year for the MOVE Grants rolling mechanism, WBF is actively working to fine-tune and develop it further. This adaptive approach allows WBF to better understand the interests and potentials of our beneficiaries while leveraging and expanding its own capacities. The goal is to create a grants program that not only meets the needs of the Western Balkans region but also maximizes its impact and sustainability.
The first call for proposals, launched with great enthusiasm in March 2023, witnessed an overwhelming response. Out of the 189 projects received from the six Contracting Parties, WBF successfully selected 23 projects that demonstrated immense potential, creativity, and dedication to regional development. This initial success further reinforces the importance of MOVE Grants as a catalyst for change and progress in the Western Balkans.
To maintain the momentum and to support the aspirations of the newly inspired potential grantees, WBF is now excitedly announcing the launch of the second Call for Grants. This call, open exclusively to the citizens of the Western Balkans, aims to promote mobility and foster regional cooperation. With a firm belief in the transformative power of mobility, WBF envisions individuals traversing borders, breaking down barriers, and forging meaningful connections. By encouraging people to step out of their comfort zones, embrace diversity, and explore new opportunities, WBF aims to create a more cohesive and cooperative regional climate.
The second Call for Grants, open from now until July 5th, 2023, provides individuals with a unique opportunity to engage in transformative experiences that expand their horizons. WBF understands that mobility acts as a powerful conduit for personal growth, intercultural understanding, and the development of cross-border networks. By supporting mobility initiatives, WBF is investing in a future where the Western Balkans region thrives on the strength of its interconnectedness and shared aspirations.
WBF firmly believes that civil society organizations, as well as individuals, can play a pivotal role as agents of change in the region. By coming together, sharing common values, experiences, and culture, they have the potential to break down barriers, build bridges, and foster meaningful collaborations. WBF encourages these actors of change to seize this opportunity and submit their innovative proposals that can make a lasting impact on the region.
Stay tuned for more exciting news! WBF remains dedicated to continuously supporting our partners in the region. We are diligently working on launching a larger call for organizations in Autumn 2023, further expanding the scope and reach of the grants program. As we continue to evolve and adapt, we aim to be an unwavering source of support, fostering the growth and prosperity of the Western Balkans. Together, let us forge a brighter future for our region.
The Swiss Government supports the institutional strengthening and portfolio diversification of the Western Balkans Fund. WBF Move Grants are part of this support
