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Institutions

We are committed to building a strong democratic community. We believe that a robust civic sector plays an essential role in this process. We form partnerships with CSOs based on trust and a shared purpose of strengthening the foundations of democracy.



Legenda

Grantee

an organization financially supported by the EFC Foundation through a grant.

Operator

an organization responsible for distributing the funds held by the grantee and serving as its substantive patron.

Type of support

the manner in which the grantee allocates the received funds.

Seed capital

funds designated for launching the grantee’s activities or expanding the scope of operations for a recently established grantee.

Core funding

funding provided for the overall structure of the grantee without specifying a particular purpose for the allocation of funds.

Statutory work

support for one of the grantee’s projects carried out within the framework of its mission as defined in its statute.

Currently supported institutions

New partnerships

Grantee

Operator

Type of Support

Program

Location

Fundacja Polskiej Rady Biznesu (Polish Business Council Foundation)

About

The Polish Business Council Foundation undertakes and supports initiatives aimed at strengthening both the Polish economy and civil society. It assists both non-governmental organizations and public institutions in their efforts to build a strong economy and an efficient, civic-minded state.

Support framework

Our cooperation reflects a belief in the value of partnership between business and social organizations. With our support, the Polish Business Council Foundation was able to commission several voter turnout campaigns from social organizations ahead of the 2025 presidential election.

Grant details

Operator

Polish Business Council Foundation

Type of support

Statutory activity

Program

Pro-turnout campaign 2025

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://www.fundacjaprb.pl

Grantee history

Support period

May 2025

Support value

216,000 PLN

Fundacja Zryw (Zryw Foundation)

About

Zryw Foundation emerged from a community of statespeople who collaborated during the 2023 parliamentary campaign. Today, Zryw is a non-partisan, non-profit organization uniting individuals who share civic values and a mission to shape the future leaders of the state. Zryw's activities are carried out with a view to bringing about qualitative generational change, equalizing opportunities, and enabling people from different socioeconomic backgrounds, often with contrasting worldviews, to achieve success in public life. The foundation provides its beneficiaries with both the necessary knowledge and practical experience in administration.

Support framework

The EFC Foundation provided seed funding to Zryw Foundation because both organizations believe in the power of civic engagement among young people and the need to revitalize public life in Poland. In doing so, we are investing in the country’s democratic future. Zryw's activities respond to the urgent need to prepare a new generation of professional statesmen, ready to work for the common good. By supporting Zryw, the EFC Foundation is investing in the future of a country based on democratic values, built by responsible, competent, and dedicated citizens.

Grant details

Operator

Zryw Foundation

Type of support

Core funding

Program

N/A

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://www.linkedin.com/company/fundacjazryw/

Grantee history

Support period

May 2025 - May 2026

Support value

100,000 PLN

Kronos

About

Kronos is a renowned philosophical quarterly publication and publishing house dedicated to exploring metaphysics, religion, the history of ideas, and culture. Founded in 2007, it combines the classical heritage of European thought with reflections on the present day. Its pages feature contributions from eminent philosophers, humanists, and intellectuals from Poland and abroad. The journal stands out for its intellectual courage, depth of analysis, and high editorial standards. Kronos addresses topics fundamental to Western culture and identity, becoming one of the most important forums for philosophical and spiritual debate in Poland. Its mission is to restore philosophy to its rightful place in public life.

Support framework

The EFC Foundation supports Kronos out of a shared belief in the essential role of philosophical and humanistic reflection in shaping a mature civil society. Kronos is rebuilding the role of philosophy in public debate, developing critical thinking and intellectual courage—values that are important to the EFC Foundation's mission. The magazine provides a unique space for in-depth discussion of ideas, tradition, and identity, building bridges between generations of thinkers and readers. Supporting Kronos is an investment in intellectual culture that strengthens the foundations of liberal democracy.

Grant details

Operator

Fundacja Augusta hr. Cieszkowskiego (Count August Cieszkowski Foundation)

Type of support

Statutory activity

Program

Support for publishing activities

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://kronos.org.pl

Grantee history

Support period

May 2025 - May 2026

Support value

120,000 PLN

Museum of Modern Art in Warsaw

About

The Museum of Modern Art in Warsaw (MSN) is a public institution that collects, researches, and promotes both the tangible and intangible heritage of contemporary culture. MSN cooperates with various groups and communities, as well as the shaping of cognitive and aesthetic sensitivity. It develops alongside Warsaw, responds to reality, and stimulates curiosity. The Museum's daily operations are accompanied by a commitment to ethical and professional conduct, as well as concern for the environment and social relations.

Support framework

As a partner of the museum’s Education Department, we co-organize the Primary Forms program. Thanks to this initiative, primary school students across Poland can experience and create contemporary art, discovering how it can help them express themselves and better understand the modern world. As part of this program, every year students across Poland are provided with artworks and tools prepared by artists from around the world. The student community can experience and create contemporary art together, discovering how art can help them express themselves and understand the modern world.

Grant details

Operator

Museum of Modern Art in Warsaw

Type of support

Statutory activity

Program

Primary Forms

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://artmuseum.pl/

Grantee history

Supported since

June 2021

Total support value

1,478,800 PLN

Support period

May 2025 - November 2026

Support value

378,800 PLN

Notes from Poland Foundation

About

Notes from Poland plays a key role in informing the international public about social, political, and cultural developments in Poland. Through its reliable, independent, English-language content, it builds a bridge between Poland and the world, strengthening the country’s image as a democratic and transparent nation.

Support framework

We chose to support Notes from Poland after the editorial team unexpectedly lost part of its funding from the National Endowment for Democracy. By covering the shortfall, we are upholding media pluralism and helping to strengthen the independent media ecosystem.

Grant details

Operator

Notes from Poland Foundation

Type of support

Core funding

Program

N/A

Location

Krakow

Website

https://notesfrompoland.com

Grantee history

Support period

May 2025 - September 2026

Support value:

188,000 PLN

Polish Donors Forum

About

The Polish Donors Forum is an organization that brings together foundations, associations, and individual donors to foster modern, responsible, and transparent philanthropy in Poland. It aims to professionalize the philanthropic sector by supporting the exchange of knowledge, best practices, and experiences among its members. The Forum promotes ethical standards, financial transparency, and the effectiveness of social initiatives. It organizes training sessions, debates, and conferences; conducts research and undertakes advocacy efforts to improve the legal and institutional environment for charitable activities in Poland. It represents donors’ interests in dialogue with public authorities and creates opportunities for collaboration among various actors involved in philanthropy. Through its work, the Donors Forum contributes to the development of a strong and engaged civil society.

Support framework

As a member of the Forum, the EFC Foundation supports the development of tools and initiatives that enhance understanding of the role of institutional philanthropy in building a strong civil society. This support also enables the implementation of research and educational projects that help analyze the trends, needs, and challenges facing grant-making organizations. The EFC Foundation views its cooperation with the Forum as an investment in the long-term quality of public life in Poland—one based on shared responsibility, knowledge, and trust.

Grant details

Operator

Polish Donors Forum

Type of support

Core funding

Program

N/A

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://www.forumdarczyncow.pl/pl/

Grantee history

Supported since

February 2017

Total support value

100,950 PLN

Support period

February 2025 - February 2026

Support value

12,650 PLN

Przegląd Polityczny (The Political Review)

About

The Political Review, operating since 1983, is one of Poland’s most important intellectual magazines. It combines reflection on politics, culture, history, and philosophy, creating a space for dialogue between tradition and modernity, as well as between Polish identity and European values. It publishes articles by eminent thinkers from around the world, and each issue supports the development of civic culture and democratic debate. The magazine also publishes books and organizes meetings and debates, serving as an important “laboratory of ideas” for Polish intellectual life.

Support framework

The EFC Foundation chose to support the publication of all five issues of The Political Review in 2025, recognizing it as a vital contributor to a culture of reflection and pluralistic public debate. The magazine fosters civic attitudes by promoting independent thinking, intellectual openness, and dialogue across ideological divides. Cooperation with The Political Review strengthens the EFC Foundation's mission in the area of civic and humanistic education, particularly in the context of supporting initiatives with high substantive value and long-term impact on the quality of public life. Investing in this intellectual environment is an investment in a mature democracy based on critical reflection and responsibility for one's words.

Grant details

Operator

Stowarzyszenie Kulturalno-Edukacyjne “Kolegium Gdańskie” (Cultural and Educational Association "Kolegium Gdańskie")

Type of support

Statutory activity

Program

Support for publishing activities

Location

Gdańsk

Website

https://przegladpolityczny.pl

Grantee history

Support period

May 2025 - May 2026

Support value

100,000 PLN

Stowarzyszenie Alumni EFC i FRS (EFC and FRS Alumni Association)

About

The EFC and FRS (Starak Family Foundation) Alumni Association, founded in 2014, builds a supportive community of graduates from the Horyzonty Scholarship Program. Members share their experiences, implement joint initiatives, and support professional and personal development. The association strengthens bonds and inspires active engagement by offering support and tools to influence the environment. Achievements include a tutoring program for scholarship recipients and the development of a community that now has over 150 members.

Support framework

The EFC Foundation supports the EFC and FRS Alumni Association as an extension of its educational and civic mission. It invests in the development of social leaders who share its values and experience. The Association enables the continuation of the Horizons Program, supporting social engagement and the development of grassroots initiatives, and building a network that influences public and local life.

Grant details

Operator

EFC and FRS Alumni Association

Type of support

Core funding

Program

N/A

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://www.alumni.efc.edu.pl

Grantee history

Support period

May 2025 - December 2026

Support value

80,000 PLN

Stowarzyszenie Miasto Jest Nasze (Miasto Jest Nasze Association)

About

Miasto Jest Nasze (MJN) is an independent, Warsaw-based urban association that works to improve quality of life in the capital by promoting transparency, civic participation, and sustainable development. It was established in 2013 as a grassroots initiative by residents who wanted to actively participate in the decision-making process regarding urban space. MJN combines watchdog, expert, and activist activities—it conducts social campaigns and intervenes in matters related to urban planning, environmental protection, public transportation, and housing policy. The association actively participates in public consultations, submits legislative proposals, educates residents, and monitors the activities of local authorities. It is known for its uncompromising and independent stance, but also for its substantive approach to urban issues.

Support framework

The EFC Foundation supports Miasto Jest Nasze Association because it recognizes it as an effective and responsible actor in civil society, operating at the intersection of civic education, public participation, and advocacy. The support aims to strengthen MJN institutionally and enable long-term strategic planning. The EFC Foundation sees particular value in MJN’s efforts to promote transparency and engage citizens in decision-making processes—key elements of a democratic state governed by the rule of law. By supporting MJN, the EFC Foundation invests in the development of a political culture grounded in responsibility, local agency, and care for the common good.

Grant details

Operator

Miasto Jest Nasze Association

Type of support

Core funding

Program

N/A

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://miastojestnasze.org/

Grantee history

Support period

May 2025 - December 2025

Support value

100,000 PLN

The Center for Citizenship Education

About

The Center for Citizenship Education Foundation is an organization working to improve the quality of education in Poland. It supports teachers, principals, and students in developing the skills necessary in today's world. The Center’s mission is to inspire positive change in schools by introducing modern teaching methods and addressing important educational issues. In addition to its programs, the Center for Citizenship Education organizes webinars, conferences, and workshops aimed at strengthening teaching competencies in response to today’s educational challenges.

Support framework

The Irena Sendler Award, presented since 2006, is a distinction for teachers who are passionate about their work. The Award Committee honors individuals who inspire sensitivity, empathy, and social engagement among students, building bridges between people and supporting those in need. Each year, the committee nominates approximately 10 finalists, and the winner receives a prize of 15,000 PLN . One of the foundations of a healthy school community and effective civic education is teaching children and young people inclusion and empathy – something that requires qualified and charismatic educators. The EFC Foundation, which has been funding the Award since 2017, is convinced that the work of these educators helps foster healthier relationships among young people and contributes to building a future society that is more resilient to the xenophobia and related forms of radicalism we see today.

Grant details

Operator

The Center for Citizenship Education

Type of support

Statutory activity

Program

Irena Sendler Award

Location

Lodz

Website

https://uczotwartosci.ceo.org.pl/nagroda-im-ireny-sendlerowej/

Grantee history

Supported since

November 2017

Total support value

149,000 PLN

Support period

April 2025 - January 2028

Support value

75,000 PLN

The Universal Reading Foundation

About

The Universal Reading Foundation works to promote reading in Poland, with a particular focus on children and young people. It was established in 2018 at the initiative of representatives from the publishing, education, and social sectors. The Foundation conducts educational activities, social campaigns, and support programs for schools and libraries. It is also involved in research on reading habits and promotes books as a means of supporting the intellectual, emotional, and social development of children. Its goal is to reduce educational inequality by encouraging reading from an early age.

Support framework

The EFC Foundation supports the Universal Reading Foundation because both organizations share the belief that reading plays a key role in developing the skills necessary for active participation in democratic life and civic education. The activities of the Universal Reading Foundation complement the mission of the EFC Foundation, which focuses on civic education and empowering young people to fully realize their potential. Our partnership strengthens the foundations of a democratic society rooted in knowledge, culture, and social responsibility.

Grant details

Operator

The Universal Reading Foundation

Type of support

Core funding

Program

N/A

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://www.fpc.org.pl

Grantee history

Support period

May 2025 - September 2028

Support value

600,000 PLN

Borderland Foundation

About

The Borderland Foundation, operating since 1990 in Sejny on the Polish-Lithuanian border, aims to build bridges between cultures. Inspired by local diversity and difficult history, the founders of the center focus on cultural animation and creating a community that respects traditions, memory, and openness. The program includes intercultural education, youth work, documenting local history, and supporting dialogue through art. The headquarters, located in a former synagogue and yeshiva, has become the “Sejny agora” – a space for meetings, workshops, and artistic events that integrate and enliven the social fabric of the borderland.

Support framework

The convergence of the activities of the Borderland Foundation with the vision of the EFC Foundation is reflected in the appreciation of the role of culture and education in shaping communities at the local, national, and European levels; in a long-term, intergenerational perspective of activities and with sensitivity to fostering good neighborly relations in the region of Central and Eastern Europe. Another common feature of the activities of the Borderland Foundation and the EFC Foundation is the search for innovative and interdisciplinary formats that combine reflection and intellectual ferment with educational and artistic practice, as well as the building of an environment of people and institutions working for change.

Grant details

Operator

Borderland Foundation

Type of support

Statutory activity

Program

Small World Centers Program

Location

Sejny

Website

https://www.pogranicze.sejny.pl/

Grantee history

Support period

July 2024 - July 2025

Support value

200,000 zł

Civitates Fund

About

Civitates is a fund that supports independent media and organizations working to strengthen civil society in Europe. Since 2018, it has responded to growing polarization, shrinking civic space, and the spread of disinformation. To date, the fund has supported over 50 organizations in 18 countries, contributing more than €13 million to their efforts. It provides flexible, long-term financial support and mobilizes other donors to act in the interest of democracy.

Support framework

The EFC Foundation’s decision to join the group of organizations funding the Civitates Fund represents an opportunity to help shape a pan-European civic culture. We are the second organization from Poland to join Civitates, after the Batory Foundation. Our presence helps ensure that the Fund remains attentive to the interests of Central and Eastern Europe.

Grant details

Operator

Network of European Foundations

Type of support

Core funding

Program

N/A

Location

Brussels

Website

https://civitates-eu.org/

Grantee history

Support period

July 2024 - July 2026

Support value

150,000 EUR

Club of Catholic Intelligentsia

About

The Club of Catholic Intelligentsia in Warsaw is an association of lay Christians working for the common good. The Club develops talents in the service of others, creating a space for dialogue and community. It operates in the spirit of the Second Vatican Council, deepening faith and responsibility for the Church. Although it cooperates with the hierarchy, it remains independent of Church and state authorities. Its goal is to transform the world in the spirit of Christian values and solidarity.

Support framework

The Mountain of Leaders program is a Polish-Ukrainian educational initiative that develops a sense of shared responsibility, cooperation, and agency among young people. Its goal is to build a community based on a common mission, in line with the values of the EFC Foundation. Participants are expected to strengthen democracy, develop confidence in their own abilities, and engage in activities together even after the program ends.

Grant details

Operator

Club of Catholic Intelligentsia

Type of support

Statutory activity

Program

Program Góry Liderów

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://www.kik.waw.pl/

Grantee history

Support period

January 2025 - December 2027

Support value

750,000 PLN

Fundacja Inicjatywa Wschód (Inicjatywa Wschód Foundation)

About

The Inicjatywa Wschód Foundation works to promote a safe Poland and a dignified life for all, striving to redefine the political priorities of Polish politics. The Foundation's goal is to combat the unfair distribution of wealth and respond to the material and social needs of citizens. Wschód believes that young people are needed everywhere, in schools, universities, and workplaces, as a driving force for social change. It is important to the Foundation that the pursuit of social justice does not stand in the way of mutual care.

Support framework

The EFC Foundation, which has been working for young people for over a decade, is transferring this cooperation to the non-governmental sector. Wschód is one of the most important representatives of the third sector in Poland's new generation.

Grant details

Operator

Inicjatywa Wschód Foundation

Type of support

Statutory activity

Program

A platform for social engagement of young people

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://www.wschod.org/

Grantee history

Support period

December 2024 - June 2027

Support value

625,000 PLN

Fundacja Pracownia Zmiany (Pracownia Zmiany Foundation)

About

The Pracownia Zmiany Foundation was established on the initiative of members of the Warsaw-based association Miasto Jest Nasze to leverage its resources and experience in other cities. The foundation provides substantive support for projects related to urban planning, climate change adaptation, road safety, and social participation. It strives to change cities so that they become more friendly to people and nature. It cooperates with local governments and public institutions, as well as with companies and organizations of the Polish third sector.

Support framework

We support Pracownia Zmiany because it builds a strong, democratic community through the transfer of knowledge and tools for social activism, especially in smaller municipalities, which often have limited access to the resources and know-how available in larger centers.

Grant details

Operator

Miasto jest Nasze Association

Type of support

Statutory activity

Program

Laboratorium Zmiany

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://www.zmiany.org/

Grantee history

Supported since

March 2024

Total support value

376,000 PLN

Support period

December 2024 - December 2025

Support value

242,500 PLN

Fundacja Samodzielność od Kuchni

About

The SOK Foundation focuses on supporting refugee children, helping them build resilience and develop their language and psychosocial skills. Its goal is to provide children with security, a sense of agency, and skills adapted to their new life situation. Working with children is combined with organizing training courses for teachers of Polish as a foreign language, which are enriched with an emotional regulation component, helping to alleviate stress and support the well-being of students. At the same time, the Foundation offers psychosocial support to the children's families, improving the quality of life of entire communities.

Support framework

By supporting the Minds & Hearts Program of the SOK Foundation, we respond to the challenges faced by Polish schools in dealing with the influx of refugee youth. The program's activities promote equality by strengthening teachers' competencies in working with students from diverse backgrounds and with varying needs. It also supports them in developing skills to deal with trauma and support students in their emotional development, which contributes to building a safer and more supportive environment for all children.

Grant details

Operator

Fundacja Samodzielność od Kuchni

Type of support

Statutory activity

Program

Minds & Hearts Program

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://fundacjasok.org.pl/

Grantee history

Support period

September 2025 - August 2026

Support value

250,000 PLN

Ludwika and Henryk Wujec Civic Fund

About

The Ludwika and Henryk Wujec Civic Fund is an independent initiative financed by citizens that, since 2017, has been supporting civic projects promoting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. To date, the Fund has donated PLN 4 million to over 300 initiatives that respond to social crises, such as violations of minority rights or the refugee crisis. The Fund's projects combine the values of community and civic patriotism. Thanks to the Fund's support, activists keep an eye on the authorities, counteract hate speech, care for the environment, and fight for access to public information.

Support framework

Thanks to the cooperation between the EFC Foundation and the Civic Fund, we are able to provide microgrants to smaller organizations in rural Poland.

Grant details

Operator

Foundation for Poland

Type of support

Statutory activity

Program

The Civic Fund Grant Program for 2024-2025

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://www.fdp.org.pl/

Grantee history

Support period

June 2024 - June 2025

Support value

250,000 PLN

Philanthropy for Impact Foundation

About

The Philanthropy for Impact Foundation was established in 2022 on the initiative of the EFC Foundation, with the support of Ashoka and The Flying Mind, as a Learning Journey project for philanthropists. In 2024, it became an independent organization. The Foundation's mission is to strengthen young democracies in Central and Eastern Europe by supporting and promoting long-term cooperation between philanthropists and social organizations. Its members are united by their commitment to the future of the region and their desire for continuous improvement.

Support framework

The EFC Foundation decided to support the PFI Foundation, seeing it as a pioneering organization with the potential to educate and coordinate the activities of members of the philanthropic movement throughout Central and Eastern Europe.

Grant details

Operator

Philanthropy for Impact Foundation

Type of support

Core funding

Program

N/A

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://philanthropyforimpact.com/

Grantee history

Support period

January 2025 - January 2026

Support value

500,000 PLN

SOS dla Edukacji (SOS for Education)

About

SOS for Education is a coalition of over 80 organizations working to promote modern, democratic schools. It promotes good practices, monitors education, and develops solutions for schools and authorities. It works with teachers and institutions to create schools that meet the needs of young people in the 21st century, develop key competencies, and support the community of students, parents, and teachers.

Support framework

Our support stems from the conviction that we should take advantage of the political situation by institutionally strengthening an organization which, thanks to its expert and advocacy activities, can have a systemic impact on the quality of public education in Poland.

Grant details

Operator

Fundacja Civis Polonus (Civis Polonus Foundation)

Type of support

Core funding

Program

N/A

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://sosdlaedukacji.pl/en/

Grantee history

Support period

January 2025 - March 2026

Support value

360,000 PLN

The New Community Foundation

About

The New Community Foundation works to reduce social polarization and rebuild civic community in Poland. The Foundation organizes communication training sessions as well as discussions between people with different views. It works with various communities, conducting training sessions and assessing the needs of organizations. It promotes open dialogue and strengthening interpersonal relationships.

Support framework

The New Community Foundation and the EFC Foundation share the belief that democratic societies must foster the ability to exchange views and engage in dialogue with empathy – without losing sight of the greater good of living together in a shared country.

Grant details

Operator

New Community Foundation

Type of support

Core funding

Program

N/A

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://www.fnw.org.pl/

Grantee history

Support period

January 2025 - December 2026

Support value

500,000 PLN

Institutions supported in the past

GRANTEE

Operator

Type of support

Program

Location

Fundacja Cześć Ciało (Cześć Ciało Foundation)

About

Cześć Ciało Foundation creates a safe, free educational space on social media to support children and adolescents in discovering themselves as they go through puberty. Its mission is to provide reliable knowledge about health and promote a positive attitude towards one's own body. The Foundation aims to ensure that every child in Poland has access to valuable information that will help them better understand their needs and abilities, transforming adolescence into an inspiring stage of personal development.

Support framework

Young people cannot be expected to take care of a democratic community if they don't take care of their own mental health first. That's why the EFC Foundation has supported the creation of a safe, educational platform about adolescence for children and teens.

Grant details

Operator

Cześć Ciało Foundation

Type of support

Seed capital

Program

N/A

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://www.czesccialo.pl/

Grantee history

Support period

November 2023 - November 2024

Support value

600,000 PLN

Fundacja SEXEDPL (SEXEDPL Foundation)

About

SEXEDPL Foundation is a multimedia educational platform that offers accessible knowledge about human rights, gender equality, relationships and reproductive health. It promotes a positive, respectful and empathetic approach to sexuality. It organizes workshops, anonymous online consultations and educational campaigns, breaking down taboos and stigma. Their work is recognized by the UN, among others, and their promotional materials reach millions of viewers every week.

Support framework

The EFC Foundation collaborated with the SEXEDPL Foundation on a pro-frequency campaign ahead of the 2023 parliamentary elections, considered by both foundations to be particularly important for Poland's democratic future. The SEXEDPL campaign mobilized young people to participate in the elections through an unusual, educational message on topics related to sexuality.

Grant details

Operator

SEXEDPL Foundation

Type of support

Statutory activity

Program

Pro-turnout campaign

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://sexed.pl/

Grantee history

Support period

September 2023 - October 2023

Support value

50,000 PLN

Helsinki Committee Foundation for Human Rights

About

Helsinki Foundation for Human Rights, founded in 1989, is an independent organization that protects human rights, democracy and the rule of law. It operates in Poland, the EU and countries in Eastern Europe, Central Asia and the Caucasus. It monitors human rights, supports repressed activists and represents them in court. It focuses on the rule of law, due process, media freedom, equal treatment, protection of migrants' rights and rights in the context of the environmental crisis.

Support framework

The EFC Foundation worked with the Helsinki Foundation for Human Rights and its partners on a voter turnout and referendum campaign ahead of the 2023 Polish parliamentary elections, considered by both foundations to be particularly important for Poland's democratic future. The “Don’t get pushed around by the referendum!” campaign served to encourage citizens to take part in the elections, but also to refuse to participate in a parallel referendum because of biased and misleading questions and the use of the referendum in a fraudulent political campaign.

Grant details

Operator

Helsinki Committee Foundation for Human Rights

Type of support

Statutory activity

Program

“Don’t get pushed around by the referendum!” campaign

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://hfhr.pl/

Grantee history

Support period

September 2023 - October 2023

Support value

30,000 PLN

Komitet Obrony Demokracji (Committee for the Defense of Democracy)

About

Committee for the Defense of Democracy was established in 2015 to counter violations of the law by the authorities and defend democracy. It works for the rule of law, worldview neutrality and supports civil society. The initiative began with an article by Krzysztof Lozinski and quickly gained support - thousands of people joined the online group, which led to the formation of the organization.

Support framework

The EFC Foundation collaborated with the Committee on the pro-frequency campaign “Election without a pickup” ahead of the 2023 parliamentary elections. It recruited public observers for 27,000 election commissions and independently verified voting results. The campaign also aimed to raise citizens' awareness of the need for election monitoring and build partnerships to strengthen its credibility.

Grant details

Operator

Committee for the Defense of Democracy

Type of support

Statutory activity

Program

“Election without a pickup” informational campaign

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://ruchkod.pl/

Grantee history

Support period

September 2023 - October 2023

Support value

50,000 PLN

Liberté! Foundation

About

The Liberté! Foundation is a Polish cultural, social organization (and think tank) operating since 2007. It supports the ideas of open society, liberal culture and market economy, promoting human rights, rule of law and European integration. It carries out ambitious cultural projects and belongs to international networks, including 4liberty.eu, Atlas Network and European Liberal Forum.

Support framework

The EFC Foundation collaborated with Liberté! on voter turnout and outreach campaigns ahead of the 2023 parliamentary elections, which both foundations considered particularly important for Poland's democratic future. The “Animal Atlas” campaign encouraged young adults to vote. The “Confetti” campaign created a website that provided reliable information about the views and demands of the Polish far right, helping to understand its influence on the political scene. The “Turning Point for Poland” campaign aimed to foster a sense that elections are a watershed moment for the country, and to unite citizens around common values and goals.

Grant details

Operator

Liberté! Foundation

Type of support

Statutory activity

Program

“Animal atlas”, “Confetti”, “The Turning Point for Poland” pro-turnout campaigns

Location

Lodz

Website

https://liberte.pl/

Grantee history

Support period

September 2023 - October 2023

Support value

370,000 PLN

Orientuj.się

About

Orientuj.się is an independent social media profile under the patronage of the Association 61, which educates about socio-political events in Poland in an accessible and impartial manner. It explains issues related to democracy, the rule of law, and civil rights using graphics, analyses, and concise posts. It promotes conscious participation and civic responsibility.

Support framework

By supporting Orientuj.się, we aim to strengthen new media that reach Generation Z with reliable knowledge about public affairs.

Grant details

Operator

Stowarzyszenie 61 (Association 61)

Type of support

Core funding

Program

N/A

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://www.tiktok.com/@orientuj.sie

Grantee history

Support type

July 2024 - July 2025

Support value:

200,000 PLN

School with Class Foundation

About

The School with Class Foundation, active since 2002, supports schools, teachers and principals in improving the quality of education through the development of future competencies, civic education and project-based work. It promotes dialogue, cooperation and autonomy of schools as well as the role of teachers as leaders of change. It implements training programs, research and campaigns, helping to create modern, inclusive and socially responsible schools.

Support framework

The Education Inspiration program targeted teachers from small towns in implementing original educational projects based on engagement and local context. The EFC Foundation supported it because it addressed the challenges of education outside of large centers, strengthening teachers as leaders of change and developing students' key competencies for democracy. The collaboration helped the EFC Foundation level the educational playing field and build an informed civil society.

Grant details

Operator

School with Class Foundation

Type of support

Statutory activity

Program

Education Inspiration

Location

Warsaw

Website

https://www.szkolazklasa.org.pl

Grantee history

Support period

August 2018 - July 2024

Support value

2,357,051 PLN