Future Fund: a new initiative by our partners in Hungary
17th April 2025
Roots and Wings Foundation is part of the TFN International network in Hungary. Over the past decade, they have successfully mobilised and distributed resources in times of crisis. In response to multifaceted challenges, they have launched a fund to support grassroot organisations on the ground. The following blog was written by György Hámori, Programme Manager at Roots and Wings Foundation.
Future Fund: A Lifeline for Hungary’s Grassroot Initiatives
Hungary’s civil society is facing unprecedented challenges. As government restrictions tighten and key sources of international funding disappear, grassroot organisations find themselves under increasing pressure. Many of these groups have long served as the backbone of society — offering vital social services, advocating for human rights, and fostering democratic engagement. Yet, their ability to operate freely and effectively is being systematically undermined.
In response to these growing threats, the Roots and Wings Foundation has launched the Future Fund, a pooled fund designed to provide direct, flexible financial support to local initiatives committed to strengthening democracy, social cohesion, and community resilience.
Since 2014, Roots and Wings Foundation has empowered communities across Hungary by providing €384,000 in financial aid and expert support to 71 organisations, groups, and individuals. Through long-term programs in community philanthropy, small-town revitalization, and crisis response, the foundation strengthens local initiatives and cultivates social change.
Mounting Challenges for Civil Society
For over a decade, Hungarian grassroot organisations have operated in an increasingly hostile political climate. The government has introduced various measures aimed at limiting the influence of independent NGOs, from restrictive legal frameworks to smear campaigns that frame civil society as a threat to national interests. These pressures have only intensified with the creation of the Sovereignty Protection Office, a recently established body with broad powers to investigate and obstruct organisations that receive international funding.
At the same time, a crucial financial lifeline has been cut with major donors shifting their focus away from Central Europe, many NGOs that once relied on external grants now face an uncertain future. In recent months, the disappearance of U.S. funding for civil society has left a significant gap, effectively removing one of the last remaining international supporters of independent civic initiatives. In this climate, securing stable, independent funding has become a matter of survival.
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has made his intentions clear, declaring in February 2025: "Now is the moment to settle accounts with these international networks, to sweep them out, to make their existence legally impossible."
In addition, the assembly law is being restricted alongside human rights, as recently demonstrated in the news about Budapest Pride. This crackdown extends to many other initiatives that promote democratic action and the right to express one’s opinion.
Against this backdrop, the Future Fund represents more than just financial support — it is a bold statement of solidarity and resistance.
A New Approach to Civic Funding
The Future Fund is not simply another grant program. Unlike traditional project-based funding, which often comes with rigid requirements and short-term objectives, this initiative is designed to be adaptable. It provides grassroots organisations with the flexibility to respond to emerging challenges, build long-term resilience, and sustain their work without being burdened by excessive bureaucracy.
A stable financial background is not just a matter of operational sustainability — it is also essential for the social and mental well-being of those working in civil society. When organisations have reliable funding, they can focus on their mission without the constant stress of financial uncertainty, allowing them to foster resilience within their teams and communities.
The fund’s core objectives include:
• Ensuring Stability – Providing predictable financial support that allows organisations to plan ahead.
• Expanding Impact – Strengthening civil society networks and fostering collaboration.
• Enhancing Rapid Response – Equipping organisations with the agility to react to emerging crises.
• Supporting Key Actors – Backing forward-thinking leaders and initiatives that are shaping the future of Hungary’s civic sphere.
This model builds on the Roots and Wings Foundation’s decade-long experience in managing effective, targeted funding mechanisms.
Building a Resilient Future Together
The Future Fund has set an initial goal of raising €100,000 for 2025, with a three-year plan to sustain the initiative through 2027. So far, 20% of the first-year target has been secured, providing a strong foundation for growth. But more support is needed to ensure that local organisations can continue their vital work.
At a time when democracy and civic life in Hungary are at a crossroads, the Future Fund offers a practical and urgent solution. By pooling resources and channelling them directly to the organisations working on the ground, the initiative seeks to build a stronger, more resilient civic ecosystem — one that can withstand external pressures and continue to serve local communities.
For more information on the Future Fund and how to get involved, reach out to György Hámori (gyorgy.hamori@gy-sz.hu) at the Roots and Wings Foundation.
