Throughout the Netherlands, thousands of committed citizens volunteer their time to create a fairer world. Through their own foundations, they work directly with local communities—from Nepal to Ghana, from Suriname to Ukraine.
These private initiatives (POIs) demonstrate the extent of public support for international cooperation. They are the silent engine behind structural change, driven by committed citizens here and there.
With CivicFocus, a five-year program (2026–2030) funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Wilde Ganzen can further strengthen this unique network of citizen initiatives. CivicFocus recognizes the power of voluntary commitment and promotes cooperation, knowledge sharing, and visibility of this movement in the Netherlands.
What CivicFocus makes possible
- More opportunities for POIs and their partners to share knowledge, strengthen their capacities, and increase their impact.
- An improved premium model—with, in special cases, even a doubling of the amount raised, such as during Wild Week (April 10–17, 2026).
- Stronger public campaigns that show that international solidarity is alive and well in the Netherlands.
- Specific support for projects in Ukraine, focused on community strength and reconstruction.
In this way, together with thousands of go-getters, we are building sustainable change, supported by people worldwide.
Why CivicFocus?
The program aligns with Wilde Ganzen’s mission: to strengthen initiatives by local communities and their organizations that break the cycle of poverty and promote self-reliance.
CivicFocus makes it possible to:
- Further increase POI’s knowledge and professionalism.
- Renew Wilde Ganzen’s premium model and use it more flexibly.
- Make international cooperation more visible to the Dutch public.
- Provide extra support in focus countries (including Ukraine) to initiatives that strengthen local resilience.
For who is CivicFocus?
CivicFocus is for anyone involved in global solidarity:
- Private Development Initiatives (PDIs) that collaborate with local partners.
- Local organizations worldwide that carry out projects with the support of Dutch foundations.
- Policymakers, journalists, and citizens who want to understand how civic power contributes to global justice.