How we Fund
How We Fund Our Work
At ERA – LGBTI Equal Rights Association for Western Balkans and Türkiye, how we raise and manage our funding is a direct reflection of our values: community-driven, transparent, and impact-focused.
The way we secure and manage resources reflects our commitment to a movement that is bold, community-rooted, and grounded in the lived experiences of LGBTI people across the Western Balkans and Türkiye. Every funding decision we make, whether in pursuit of new grants or in the way we allocate existing resources, is guided by our mission: a region where all LGBTI individuals live freely, equally, and safely.
Our fundraising strategy is not separate from our activism. It is an extension of it, carefully aligned with the real needs of our members and the communities they serve. We are proud to anchor our financial work in solidarity, transparency, and collective strength.
Movement-Led and Community-Centered
Whether applying for grants or accepting donations, we are driven by the insights of our network and their deep connection to local contexts. This helps us ensure our funding decisions create meaningful and lasting change.
Diverse and Responsible Sources
Our funding comes from a variety of sources, including international institutions, national governments, public and private foundations, and individual donors. We also welcome contributions from corporate partners whose values align with our vision for equality and justice.
Most of our financial support is secured through competitive grant processes that assess both our strategic plans and operational capacities. These grants enable us to sustain vital areas of our work: governance, capacity building, advocacy, research, and visibility, and ensure we remain an active voice at national, regional, and international levels.
We also accept unrestricted and purpose-specific donations, such as contributions to our regional events or emergency solidarity support. All private contributions go through a due diligence process to ensure alignment with our principles of independence and human rights.
Transparency & Accountability
We believe that sound financial management and clear accountability are not only operational necessities – they are political commitments. As a regional network representing diverse communities, we hold ourselves to high standards of transparency and governance.
Each year, ERA undergoes an independent audit. We publish detailed financial statements and reports, which are shared with our members and regulatory authorities. We take pride in ensuring that all funding entrusted to us is used responsibly, efficiently, and in service of advancing the rights and dignity of LGBTI people throughout the Western Balkans and Türkiye.
