Fundraising is a powerful tool that mobilizes resources, engages communities, and drives significant change. In Kosovo, various fundraising methods, including traditional fundraising campaigns, membership models, and crowdfunding have demonstrated their potential to support impactful projects and foster community engagement and development. These initiatives not only gather essential financial support but also build a sense of collective effort and commitment toward common goals. Here, we highlight three remarkable examples of fundraising efforts in Kosovo that have made a substantial difference in their respective sectors.

Building a Community Center in Ferizaj: Traditional Fundraising Creating Lasting Impact

Ferizaj, a city currently lacking a dedicated center for communities with special needs, saw the initiation of such center in n the summer of 2023. This community center aims to benefit around 200 children and adults. To mobilize the necessary finances, the organization involved in this project participated in fundraising training organized by Citizen Engagement Activity, a five-year partnership between the Kosovar Civil Society Foundation (KCSF) and USAID Kosovo. Through these efforts, they applied traditional fundraising methods, resulting in significant contributions. To date, $10,711 (10,000 euros) has been raised from local businesses, $21,417 (20,000 euros) from the diaspora through PayPal Online Fundraising, and additional in-kind contributions from businesses for construction materials. Also, to date, they have generated more than $65,000 (66,000 euros) from the organized conference "Diaspora for persons with disabilities", mobilizing various partners.

The donation of 20 thousand euros collected through the PayPal Online Fundraising to support Handikos's project
Photo source: Official “Facebook” account of Handikos Ferizaj


This collaborative effort underscores the power of traditional fundraising in driving community development and creating lasting impact.

HIVE: A Membership Model Fueling Independent Journalism

Kosovo 2.0 (K2.0), known for its independent, high-quality journalism, has introduced the HIVE membership model to ensure continued independence and fearless reporting. This model allows supporters to contribute financially and become part of the organization's mission to maintain its independence and deliver in-depth, quality journalism that holds power to account and inform the public.

Supporters of HIVE benefit from curated newsletters, behind-the-scenes content, unique designs, and direct interaction with the newsroom. K2.0 is dedicated to insightful discussions on current affairs in Kosovo, the region, and beyond, through its print and online magazines, debates, and advocacy initiatives. The HIVE membership model offers various packages to suit different levels of support, from one-time donations to ongoing memberships. Each contribution helps sustain the high standards of journalism and impactful storytelling that K2.0 is committed to.

“EmpowerHer!” Campaign: Crowdfunding to Empower Kosovo’s Future Leaders

Crowdfunding has become a vital tool for mobilizing resources and engaging communities in supporting impactful projects. A successful example of this is the “EmpowerHer!” campaign, led by the IPKO Foundation (IF), a local foundation in Kosovo dedicated to nurturing future leaders who leverage technology to address local and national challenges.

Through the “Kosova ideas” crowdfunding platform, this campaign raised 24,330 euros, exceeding its target of 20,000 euros, thanks to contributions from a diverse group of supporters.  IF’s vision with the “EmpowerHer!” scholarship program is to provide high-quality STEM education and mentorship to over 150 girls ages 11-18 from across Kosovo.

The funds raised will cover scholarships, tuition fees, educational materials, and technology resources. This initiative empowers girls to pursue their passions, break through societal barriers, and emerge as leaders in their communities, driving systemic change and advocating for equality and inclusivity.

Conclusion

Fundraising in Kosovo showcases the transformative potential of different methods, from traditional campaigns to membership models and crowdfunding. Each approach brings unique advantages, mobilizing resources, and communities to achieve common goals. These success stories highlight how strategic fundraising can drive significant social change and by continuing to innovate and engage diverse supporters, fundraising initiatives in Kosovo can build a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

 

This article is made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents are the responsibility of Catalyst Balkans and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.

The Citizen Engagement Activity in Kosovo is a five-year initiative implemented by Kosovar Civil Society Foundation (KCSF) in partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).