FUNDRAISING BY MOLDOVAN CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS FROM DOMESTIC SOURCES

In order to maintain permanent work, organizations need financial, material, human, and time resources. Unlike public institutions, which are funded by the budget or for-profit entities, non-profit organizations must seek funds for their activities. The Civil Society Development Strategy for 2012-2015 aims to strengthen the financial sustainability of civil society organizations (CSOs) by establishing mechanisms for their financial viability. The study "Fundraising from Domestic Sources: Opportunities and Perspectives" was conducted between May and July 2015 in partnership with ECNL. The study analyzed the legal basis that regulates fundraising, examples of fundraising from domestic sources, an online survey, and individual interviews. The study aims to identify opportunities and perspectives on fundraising from domestic sources in Moldova. The analysis of domestic fundraising is significant because most studies, including the online survey, have confirmed that the primary source of funding for Moldovan CSOs is foreign foundations and organizations. However, foreign donors are encouraging CSOs to diversify their funding sources. The study provides information and practical tips on fundraising from domestic sources, as well as suggestions on related cooperation between CSOs and the society. The research was based on an online Google survey, which aimed to investigate the general climate on fundraising, the existing normative framework that regulates fundraising for CSOs, and the organizations' fundraising capacities. The analysis of the legal framework started with the survey results and aimed to describe the legal mechanisms used by CSOs for fundraising from domestic sources. The study found that Moldovan CSOs are highly dependent on external funding sources (83%). However, they are increasingly diversifying their funding sources. The role of services provided by CSOs in their budgets is significant, with 27% of organizations indicating this source as very important. Individual donations and donations from the private sector are also important sources of funding. However, endowment or loans are unused by Moldovan CSOs. The study also found that Moldovan CSOs are conservative in their fundraising methods, with 70% preferring writing proposals and participating in various grants. This is due to the fact that this method is the most accessible and does not require many resources. The study provides practical tips on fundraising from domestic sources, including using various fundraising methods, such as crowdfunding, events, and online fundraising platforms. The study concludes that domestic fundraising is a crucial aspect of financial sustainability for CSOs. By diversifying their funding sources, CSOs can reduce their dependence on external funding and increase their financial viability. The study provides a comprehensive analysis of the legal framework and practical tips on fundraising from domestic sources, making it a valuable resource for CSOs in Moldova.