Grants, knowledge sharing, networking – Aspektus+ is a complex four-year capacity building programme for rural NGOs in Hungary, coordinated by the Alternative Communities Association, the Dialogue Association, the Power of Humanity Foundation and the Motivation Community. The size and significance of the programme, which is being implemented with the support of the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programme with EU funding of around one billion HUF, could make a significant difference to the operation of NGOs seeking self-determination and receiving support.
“A well-developed society of independent civil society communities promotes participation and broader representation of people. This makes democracy stronger and more resilient, ensures EU values such as equality, human rights, solidarity and creates a livable society for all,” said András Nyirati, President of the Power of Humanity Foundation, which is leading the coordinating coalition. He added: “We are proud to have been awarded the EU grant, as the CERV programme received only 16 applications for funding out of 80 applications received in this funding round across the EU.” But this is not the only reason why the grant is so important: Aspektus+ is a new type of funding available to NGOs, thanks to its professional structure and progressive approach.
The programme can be an significant source of funding for civil society beyond the level and use of the grants available. In recent years, the members of the Aspect Group have gathered good experience, core values and professional ideas from their work as applicants and grant-giving organisations to provide a response to the operational difficulties faced by rural NGOs. It has succeeded in implementing a number of aspects in the application process that allow NGOs to use the funding as flexibly and efficiently as possible.
The backbone of the programme is the provision of long-term, predictable financial support to enable NGOs to operate independently. These will be launched gradually by the Aspect Group from the second quarter of 2025. The organisations will be provided with training, organisational development, a professional mentoring process, opportunities and space for networking.