FUNDRAISING FOR NGOS

We’re excited to share the experience of the Erasmus+ training course “Fundraising for NGOs”, which took place from July 7th to 13th, 2025, in Novaci, Romania, hosted by Scout Society. The training gathered participants with the aim to explore methods ways of fundraising for NGOs.

What made this training truly unique was the opportunity to learn directly from seasoned professionals in fundraising which were invited as speakers in the project. Learning from people who are experts in their field was invaluable because it allowed participants to get input on specific fundraising strategies and ideas for their own organisations. The topic itself was especially relevant, since the lack of financial resources is one of the biggest challenges faced by many organizations and it is something so many of us agreed is holding us back from doing even more good for our communities.

Throughout the program, we worked together on developing a Fundraising Guide which is supposed to be a comprehensive manual designed to help NGOs, youth workers, and individuals understand and apply the basics of fundraising. The guide includes a collection of methods, strategies, and resources, making it a valuable entry point even for complete beginners. At the same time, it also provides lists of platforms and tools that can support organizations in diversifying their funding sources and becoming more sustainable.

The training was not only about acquiring knowledge but also about exchanging practices, brainstorming solutions, and reflecting on how fundraising can empower NGOs to better serve their communities. It was amazing getting to collaborate with so many youth workers from all over Europe and we managed to network and build new connections. By the end of the week, we all left with practical skills, fresh perspectives, and concrete ideas we could immediately apply in our own organizations.

For me personally, this training was incredibly valuable because while I had prior experience in fundraising, I was able to better my skills through collaboration with other experienced people. Immediately, I started imagining how these fundraising approaches could be adapted to the specific needs of my community and I can’t wait to put my new knowledge into action and continue building on the tools and inspiration I’ve gained.

Organized by Scout Society and supported by the Erasmus+ programme, this training highlighted how crucial financial literacy and resource development are for the future of NGOs. For anyone working in this field, such an opportunity is truly transformative.

                   –  by Katica, volunteer of Euroactive Serbia