During wartime, Ukrainian media are performing an incredibly important task. They are doing everything possible to accurately and reliably inform citizens about what is happening. And donor support is a significantly necessary component for the functioning of quality media. This was emphasized by Gillian McCormack, the director of Internews Ukraine, during her speech at the Media Management School for Youth. She highlighted the need to be prepared for persistence and innovative approaches to achieve success. The program, implemented by the international non-profit organization Internews, has been operating since 2018 and is the largest media development project in Ukraine’s history.
Exciting brainstorming sessions, deep lectures, explosive and passionate discussions turned this day into a true idea factory and expanded project horizons. The participants tirelessly asked questions during practical exercises and informal communication. Teamwork and individual mastery of coachers and participants gave everyone a second wind and new strength to bring their boldest plans to life. Charged with new knowledge and inspiration, the participants fine-tuned ideas during this incredibly powerful intensive march of cool recommendations. And each speaker generously shared their professional secrets even in time constraints.
In particular, to be noticed by donors, it is essential to actively create informational content about your activities on various platforms, emphasized Yaropolk Tymkiv, deputy program development manager at USAID Transformation Communication Activity. Participating in donor training not only increases your visibility but also allows you to get into their mailing lists.
Media manager Tetiana Kyselchuk, the inspiration behind the course thoroughly discussed fundraising and budgeting. First and foremost, it is necessary to assess the cost of work, equipment rental, premises, subscriptions, experts, and other expenses. She also offered advice for finding money: subscribe to donors, monitor competitions, and apply for grants. The funding structure may include donors, business partners, and volunteer activities.
To successfully write a grant application, it is necessary to clearly define the problem, support it with statistical data, and be realistic. These tips were provided by Mariia Ishchenko, Grants and Subcontracts Assistant at USAID Transformation Communication Activity. She also emphasized the importance of avoiding general phrases and anticipating all possible risks. Reports should include specifics and success stories presented within defined timelines.
Vladyslav Hreziev, founder and head of the employment platform and recruiting agency Lobby X, shared about a successful pitch. He said that each format has its advantages: short and dynamic presentations for quick attention grabbing and detailed and reasoned presentations for investors.
Dmytro Mitsevych, financial manager of the Media Development Foundation, talked about creating NGOs and individual entrepreneurs, as well as the basics of financial management. Participants learned about potential sharp turns in financial management, the registration process, and income and expense management.
There are still 24 hours left of this exciting intellectual marathon. We don’t stop, and tomorrow we’ll discuss gender equality and social inclusion, storytelling, and surprise the world with presentations of updated projects. In our work, we temper our strength and resilience!
The project is implemented with the support of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) through the “Media Program, Internews Ukraine” program executed by the international organization Internews Network and the “Transformation Communications” project.
