Mapping of organizations supporting cultural initiatives in Ukraine and the Netherlands

Cultural collaboration between Ukraine and the Netherlands is driven by a diverse network of institutions supporting artists, heritage preservation, and international exchange. Below is a list of key organizations in both countries that provide funding, foster artistic development, protect cultural heritage, and enhance cross-border cooperation.

DutchCulture's key partners in Ukraine are the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Kyiv and the Ukrainian Institute. The Embassy’s cultural department focuses on establishing international collaborations, supporting Ukraine’s cultural sector, and preserving its cultural heritage. The Ukrainian Institute, affiliated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, facilitates international connections, with dedicated departments for various cultural sectors. Their Insight UA website provides a comprehensive overview of Ukrainian artists, institutions, and projects, serving as a valuable resource for international collaboration.

Additionally, the Ukrainian Cultural Foundation, affiliated with the Ministry of Culture and Information Policy of Ukraine, plays a crucial role in supporting artists and cultural initiatives within the country, though its budget has been limited since 2022.

Other key organizations that provide structural support, funding, or coordination within Ukraine’s cultural sector include:

• Ukrainian Book Institute, a state institution that shapes policy in the book industry, supports publishing, and fosters international cooperation.
• PEN Ukraine, an influential organization advocating for freedom of expression and international cultural exchange.
• BookForum, Ukraine’s most prominent literary festival and professional platform for the publishing industry.
• Dovzhenko Centre, Ukraine’s national film archive and a major institution for film preservation and promotion.
• Ukrainian Film Academy (UFA), a key body supporting the Ukrainian film industry.
• Zapravka, aims to ensure the visibility and systematic representation of Ukrainian art residencies in the international professional field
• House of Europe, an EU-funded program facilitates international collaboration and professional exchange in various cultural and creative industries.
• IZOLYATSIA, a cultural platform originally from Donetsk, now based in Kyiv, which runs the ZMINA Rebuilding program supporting Ukrainian cultural actors
• Insha Osvita, an educational and cultural organization that administers the Culture Helps grant program and supports independent cultural initiatives across Ukraine.

Furthermore, immediate emergency response in the country is provided by the ACURE - Agency for Cultural Resilience, HeMo: Ukrainian Heritage Monitoring Lab, and Museum for Change. Together, these organisations also form the CER Regional Hub in the Black Sea, a collaboration with the Amsterdam-based Cultural Emergency Response (CER), which coordinates efforts, maps heritage risks, and fosters knowledge sharing on heritage protection in Ukraine and the wider Black Sea region.

Who are the key players in the Netherlands when it comes to funding and supporting cultural initiatives connected to Ukraine?

At the heart of international cultural policy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands are the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, working together with DutchCulture to shape a strong and inclusive cultural framework. DutchCulture, the platform for international cultural cooperation, plays a key role in connecting Dutch and international cultural players. DutchCulture has a Mobility Info Point and an Advisor for Central and Eastern Europe who can help further those interested in working with Ukraine. TransArtists, a program of DutchCulture, provides valuable resources on artist-in-residence opportunities worldwide, helping artists connect with international residency programs.

At the national level, six major cultural funds shape the landscape: the Creative Industries Fund NL, Mondriaan Fund, Performing Arts Fund NL, Dutch Literature Fund, Film Fund, and Cultural Participation Fund. These national funds provide crucial support for artists, designers, filmmakers, and performers, fostering (international) collaboration. The European Cultural Foundation strengthens cross-border cultural responses to urgent challenges while also shaping policy.

Protecting and preserving Ukrainian cultural heritage is one of the main priorities right now. The Cultural Emergency Response (CER) Fund provides immediate, targeted support to safeguard cultural heritage at risk due to crises. The Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands provides expertise, resources, and collaboration opportunities for Ukraine.

Several initiatives focus specifically on Ukraine. UNUN, Ukraine - the Netherlands Urban Network, Ro3kvit - Urban Coalition for Ukraine, unites urbanists and architects for the reconstruction of Ukraine. The UAxPlatform of ELIA enhances the resilience of higher arts education institutions and their students during times of crisis and recovery. The Vataha Foundation supports grassroots Ukrainian-led projects, amplifying voices and strengthening networks.

On a diplomatic level, the Embassy of Ukraine in The Hague plays a crucial role in fostering cultural ties, advocacy, and institutional collaboration between Ukraine and the Netherlands.

City-level programs offer diverse residencies and local funding, while private philanthropy and grassroots movements further enrich this landscape. For more information and temporary opportunities consult our Cultural Mobility Funding Guide or reach out to our Advisor for Central and Eastern Europe.