Eastern Europe

Supporting media viability in Ukraine through enhanced donor engagement and capacity building (SMVU)

Independent media in Ukraine continues to operate under extreme pressure. The full‑scale invasion has disrupted revenue streams, increased operational risks and created long‑term uncertainty for media outlets that play a vital role in providing reliable information to the public.  

For many Ukrainian media organisations survival depends not only on emergency assistance but on the ability to develop sustainable funding models and stronger organisational resilience. In a highly competitive donor environment media outlets need practical tools and long-term strategies to remain independent and continue serving the public interest. 

This programme responds to these challenges by strengthening the organisational capacity of Ukrainian media and supporting more effective, transparent and sustainable cooperation between media actors and the international donor community. 

What we do

Fojo is working with the Regional Press Development Institute (RPDI) and 16 independent and geographically dispersed Ukrainian media organisations to strengthen their ability to design, obtain funding and implement sustainable projects. Through tailored training, mentoring and peer learning, participants will improve their understanding of funding opportunities, understanding donor priorities and develop strong proposals that resonate with funders.  
 
The programme will further carry out a comprehensive mapping of donors and funders to help media navigate the international funding system; provide and disseminate a practical fundraising guide; and facilitate direct interaction between the Ukrainian media orgainsations and international public and private donors through joint meetings and forums to help build sustainable, long‑term relationships. 

About the programme
Sustainable Development Goals in this project:
SDG4 - Quality Education
SDG8 - Decent work and economic growth
SDG16 - Peace, justice and strong institutions
SDG17 - Partnerships for the goals
Partners
Funders
Themes
Team
Veronika Menjoun

Project Manager

Shamim Patel

Project Coordinator

Sara Karlén

Project Coordinator

Marie Nilsonne

Account Manager