The Swedish Government’s Award for Voluntary Efforts in Support of Ukraine

Sweden’s support for Ukraine is not solely based on governmental decisions and actions. It is based on the broad and strong will of the Swedish people to support the Ukrainian people. Across Swedish society, numerous non-governmental actors are also making important voluntary efforts that have a tangible impact for Ukraine.

In this context, voluntary efforts refer to initiatives that have been carried out without formal assignments or directives from the state – an expression of the broad voluntary commitment in Sweden. For example, it can be about what companies, NGOs, municipalities, academic institutions and individuals in Sweden are doing in support of Ukraine.

To recognize, encourage, and support this remarkable engagement, the Government of Sweden has established a new annual award for voluntary Swedish efforts in support of Ukraine. The Swedish Institute has been commissioned by the Government to announce and administer the award.

Sweden demonstrates broad and sustained support for Ukraine – from government and public authorities to civil society, the business sector, the education sector, and individual champions across the country. The new and annually recurring award for voluntary Swedish efforts in support of Ukraine has been established by the Government to highlight and celebrate the non-governmental and voluntary Swedish civilian support. It will be granted to recipients who have demonstrated initiative, compassion, courage, and perseverance through their efforts for Ukraine. The award also seeks to inspire continued engagement.

The award is open to apply for and granted annually in two categories:

• Individual or Group of Individuals (registered in Sweden): Receives an award certificate and up to SEK 200,000 to continue or develop their efforts for target groups in Ukraine. Individuals may nominate themselves or be nominated by others (with the nominee’s consent).
• Organisation (based in Sweden – excluding government agencies, except for universities and higher education institutions): Receives an award certificate and approximately SEK 1.8 million in financial support to continue, scale up, or further develop their efforts in Ukraine. Organisations may only nominate themselves.

Selection Criteria
The nominations are assessed on the basis of a number of quality criteria, that highlight efforts with both an impact for Ukraine and an inspirational power for Swedish engagement.

For Organisations:

• Exceptionality – the initiative stands out as particularly meaningful or innovative
• Creativity – innovative implementation or methods
• Impact and Results – demonstrable outcomes and tangible benefits for Ukraine
• Collaboration and Engagement – inclusive approach and broad participation
• Sustainability – long-term impact, local anchoring, and sustainable structure
• Future Potential – potential for further development or scaling
• Inspirational Value – the initiative can motivate other Swedish actors to engage for Ukraine

For Individuals (or Groups):

• Exceptionality – an outstanding personal contribution
• Creativity – innovative ways of making a contribution
• Impact and Results – clear benefits for Ukraine
• Collaboration and Engagement – inclusive and cooperative approach
• Courage – acting despite challenges or risks
• Future Potential – potential for further development
• Inspirational Value – role model character, engagement that inspires others

Award Ceremony
The awards will be presented at a ceremony in Stockholm in the autumn 2025 by a government representative, in the presence of the jury, recipients, and specially invited guests.

Would you like to nominate someone – or yourself?
Learn more and submit your nomination by following the links below.
Don’t forget to inform the person you’ve nominated.