The Inner Foundation, a leading non-profit foundation which supports mental health organisations, has announced an open funding call for NGOs and startups in Eastern Europe which are developing innovative solutions for young adults aged 18-30.
The initiative is aimed at non-profit, for-profit or hybrid organisations which have proven solutions in improving mental well-being, as well as clear processes to scale their impact. A simple and streamlined two-step application process will remain open through the end of October. The Inner Foundation will award grants ranging from Є 25,000 to Є 100,000, tailored to the specific needs of each selected organisation.
Priority areas in the initiative include addressing loneliness, promoting social connectedness, fostering healthy digital habits, supporting the mental health of men, improving well-being in education and during workplace entry, female reproductive health and its impact on mental well-being, strengthening disrupted family systems, and building up resilience in the face of climate change.
Annika Sten Pärson is a founding partner and executive chairperson of the Inner Foundation, and she speaks to the importance of the initiative: “Right now, according to the World Health Organisation, only 2-5% of the estimated $9.5 trillion in global health spending is directed toward mental health. This chronic underfunding particularly affects young people who need support now more than ever before. Our open call for project applications seeks to support changemakers who are proactive in strengthening support for young adults. This will provide members of the younger generations with the resources which they need and the confidence that they must have so as to deal with the challenges of the present day.”
Organisations are invited to complete a pre-screening form on the foundation’s Website, www.theinnerfoundation.org/open-call-eastern-europe. Applications will be reviewed by the end of October, and selected projects will receive financial support, strategic guidance, and access to the Inner Foundation’s network of experts.