More than 70 civil society organizations from all over the country took part in the series of online meetings for the competition under the program “Parenthood 2.0, more than care”. The program is aimed at preventing separation between children and parents and supporting families at risk.
The meetings were attended by both local and national organizations working in the field of early intervention, community work and parenting skills development. Behind this interest are real challenges and needs of families across the country.
The meetings were held between 11 and 17 March and combined information and practical part. Participants received guidance on funding opportunities, program priorities and evaluation criteria, as well as the opportunity to discuss real challenges from practice.
“An investment in the family is an investment in the future of the child – more support means more children who grow up in a safe environment,” was the main message of the meetings. They were led by Iliana Nikolova, Executive Director of WCIF. She stressed the importance of timely support and the role of civil society organizations as a driver of sustainable change.
During the training session, the participants also received practical guidance for the development of sustainable project proposals – from the formulation of goals to the planning of activities and budget. The training was led by Monika Pisankaneva, Program Director of WCIF.
The online format allowed for the inclusion of organizations from different regions and contributed to more equal access to information and support.
Competition for civil society organizations
The competition for civil society organizations started on March 4 and is open to non-profit legal entities registered under the Non-Profit Legal Entities Act, as well as under the Law on Community Centers.
Two types of funding are provided – for local and for national projects. The maximum amount of funding is up to €15,000 for local initiatives and up to €30,000 for national projects, lasting between 12 and 24 months.
Local initiatives should address specific challenges in the community – such as the risk of separation of children from their families, lack of support for parents, discrimination or limited access to services. National projects can be aimed at vulnerable children and families, as well as specialists and institutions in the fields of education, health care and social support. Applications are made through the WCIF electronic system until May 4, 2026.
Parenthood 2.0, more than care program
The “Parenthood 2.0, More than Care” program is implemented by the Workshop for Civic Initiatives Foundation with the support of the “Tanya’s Dream” Fund.
Its main goal is to establish parents as an active and sustainable force for raising children in a family environment. The program encourages their participation as full partners in decision-making processes, as well as in the creation and change of policies, programs and practices affecting children and families in Bulgaria.
By supporting local and national initiatives, the program puts parents at the center of social justice efforts, recognizing their expertise and voice as a key resource for sustainable change. You can learn more about the program here.