ERICS-EaP Travel Grants — €1,500 Grant for International Travel for Civil Society Organizations in the Eastern Partnership
International conferences, forums, and professional meetings help organizations find new partners, exchange experience, and build long-term cooperation. However, participation in such events is often limited by travel costs.
That is why The Transatlantic Foundation, together with the Black Sea Trust for Regional Cooperation program of the German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF), launched ERICS-EaP Travel Grants — a program that enables civil society organizations from the Eastern Partnership countries to send their representatives to key international events.
What makes this call unique
Unlike most travel grants, this program does more than simply fund a trip. Its goal is to help organizations strengthen regional connections, expand international cooperation, exchange knowledge, and become active members of the professional community across the Eastern Partnership region. Every trip is viewed as an investment in the future development of the organization and its long-term activities.
What the grant covers
Over the next two and a half years, the organizers will award 50 travel grants of up to €1,500 each. The funding covers travel expenses related to representatives’ participation in regional conferences, forums, networking events, and other initiatives aimed at strengthening cooperation across the Eastern Partnership countries.
Who can apply
Applications may be submitted by Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and informal groups from the Eastern Partnership countries that are sending their representatives to international events. Eligible participants include organization leaders, staff members, volunteers, civic activists, and representatives of informal initiatives, including those living in exile. Applicants should demonstrate how participation in the event will contribute to the development of their organization, strengthen professional networks, and support its long-term goals.
How to apply
Applicants must complete the Application Form, attach an updated CV of the organization’s representative, and provide an official invitation to the event. Applications must be submitted at least one month before the event takes place to allow sufficient time for review and funding decisions.
How applications will be evaluated
Applications will be assessed based on:
— relevance of the trip to the objectives of the call;
— potential impact on regional cooperation;
— relevance of the selected event for the organization;
— justification of the budget and cost-effectiveness.
After the event, grant recipients must submit a short report and copies of supporting documents confirming the travel expenses incurred.
Why this opportunity is worth considering
For civil society organizations, participation in international events is an opportunity to present their work, establish partnerships, exchange successful practices, and strengthen their presence within the international professional community. ERICS-EaP Travel Grants helps make these opportunities more accessible by enabling organizations to develop their projects and expand regional cooperation without additional financial barriers.
The deadline for applications is 17 July 2026.
Applications should be sent by email to erics-eap@gmfus.org. To apply, please complete the application form and attach the CV of the organisation’s representative and an official invitation to the event.
