On March 14, 2024, an insightful online workshop titled "Capacity Building: How to Apply for Funding" brought together Ukrainian cultural practitioners to discuss fundraising strategies for projects and events in Switzerland or in collaboration with Swiss partners. The workshop, held via Zoom, provided practical advice and real-world examples.
Anastasia Alexandrova, a project manager from Artlink (https://www.artlink.ch/ ) in Bern, led the workshop, offering valuable insights into Switzerland's cultural funding landscape. She explained the key funding institutions, described various funding instruments, and shared useful tips for preparing successful funding applications. Artlink, an independent association, is dedicated to promoting the work of cultural practitioners from Africa, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and Eastern Europe in Switzerland.
Elena Orap, an architect based in Lausanne, also spoke at the workshop, providing insights from her experience with SuedKulturFonds. She discussed how she secured funding for an exhibition in Lausanne and shared her journey through the application and reporting process.
The event concluded with a Q&A session, allowing participants to ask specific questions and gain deeper understanding.
This workshop was a valuable resource for Ukrainian cultural practitioners looking to secure funding in Switzerland. It provided a comprehensive guide to navigating the fundraising process.