UkraineUkraine (KyivMTCK / Facebook)

The Embassy of Canada in Ukraine has announced the commencement of applications for the 2024 Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), inviting proposals for small-scale projects aimed at fostering local development in alignment with Global Affairs Canada’s strategic priorities.

Program Overview

The CFLI focuses on supporting high-impact projects valued between CAD $30,000 and $50,000, primarily driven by local partners within eligible countries for Official Development Assistance. Administered by the Embassy of Canada in Ukraine, the fund aims to empower local communities and organizations to implement innovative solutions that deliver measurable results.

Application Process and Eligibility

Interested organizations must submit their proposals electronically to KYIVGR@international.gc.ca by July 14, 2024, adhering strictly to the designated application form and including a comprehensive budget document. Projects must be completed between the signing of the Contribution Agreement and March 2025.

Eligible recipients include local non-governmental organizations, community groups, academic institutions, and governmental bodies at the municipal, regional, or national levels actively engaged in local development activities.

Thematic Priorities

Projects must align with at least one of the CFLI’s thematic priorities, which include:

  1. Supporting Ukraine’s Peace Formula and Women, Peace, and Security Agenda: Emphasizing initiatives such as supporting families of Prisoners of War (PoWs) and unlawfully detained civilians through advocacy, networking, and capacity building. Additionally, integrating the Women, Peace, and Security agenda into local decision-making processes.
  2. Veterans: Projects focusing on the rehabilitation and reintegration of veterans, including occupational therapy and barrier-free urban planning to enhance accessibility and social inclusion.
  3. Strengthening Ukrainian Identity and Social Cohesion: Promoting initiatives that celebrate Ukrainian cultural heritage, foster dialogue among diverse community groups, and enhance societal resilience.

Gender-Based Analysis (GBA)

In alignment with Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy, CFLI requires a Gender-Based Analysis (GBA) to ensure projects address gender inequalities effectively. Applicants must consider differential impacts on women, men, girls, and boys, consult with relevant stakeholders, and integrate diverse perspectives into project design.

Impact and Expectations

Selected projects are expected to contribute significantly to local development, promoting sustainable practices and community resilience. Due to the competitive nature of the application process, only successful candidates will be contacted for further evaluation.

By investing in grassroots initiatives, CFLI aims to foster inclusive growth, empower local communities, and strengthen bilateral relations between Canada and Ukraine through impactful development projects.

Canadian Support for Ukraine

Although distrust towards the Ukrainian government is common among the Ukrainian community, Canada is steadfast with its support. “A lot of help for Ukraine, Ukraine didn’t get. So government get it and put it in the pocket,” recently stated a recent immigrant from Ukraine to Canada in an article accusing Ukraine of homophobia.