Across the Netherlands, thousands of citizens are actively engaged in international development through their own foundations and initiatives. These private development initiatives (PDIs) work directly with local partners — from Nepal and Ghana to Suriname and Ukraine — often combining strong local ownership with long-term personal commitment.

For years, Wilde Ganzen has played a key role in supporting these initiatives, providing both financial instruments and substantive guidance. That role is now being structurally strengthened through a new partnership with the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Together, they are launching CivicFocus, a five-year programme (2026–2030) designed to formally recognize, support, and professionalize citizen-led development as a distinct and valuable part of the international cooperation landscape.

What CivicFocus brings to the table

CivicFocus is not just a continuation of existing support — it introduces several important shifts:

• Stronger capacity and learning pathways
  PDIs and their local partners will have more opportunities to exchange knowledge, professionalize their work, and strengthen long-term impact.

• An enhanced matching model
  The familiar premium model is expanded, with scope for fundraising efforts to be doubled in specific cases. This includes campaigns such as Wilde Week, where selected initiatives can benefit from increased visibility and leverage.

• Greater space for public engagement
  CivicFocus explicitly invests in public campaigns, reinforcing international solidarity within the Netherlands at a time when public support for development cooperation cannot be taken for granted.

• Targeted focus on Ukraine
  Additional attention is given to initiatives working on recovery, reconstruction, and community resilience in Ukraine.

Why this matters

From an ecosystem perspective, CivicFocus is an important signal. It acknowledges that impact in international development does not only come from large programs and institutions, but also from small, citizen-driven initiatives that are deeply rooted in communities and relationships.

For foundations, NGOs, and fundraisers working with or alongside PDIs, CivicFocus creates more predictable support structures, clearer development pathways, and renewed legitimacy for this segment of civil society.

Are you involved in a citizen-led foundation, or exploring how CivicFocus could support your initiative? More information is available via Wilde Ganzen.