General Information 

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The National Institute of Freedom - Centre for Civil Society Development (NIW‑CRSO) is a governmental agency dedicated to strengthening civil society, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and volunteering across Poland. We manage national funding and support schemes, organise training and webinars for sector leaders, host large conferences and events, facilitate cross‑sector partnerships, and promote the exchange of good practices.

 

Transparency and clarity are central to our work. In all our grant programmes, we ensure open criteria, clear guidance, and accountable processes to support NGOs effectively and responsibly.

 

Our programmes fund the institutional development of organisations and support key areas of civic activity, including volunteering, folk high schools, advisory organisations, youth organisations and youth councils, and initiatives for senior citizens. We work with communities of all sizes - from major cities to small towns and villages - helping to build a resilient and inclusive civil society across the country.

 

A flagship initiative in the development of volunteering in Poland is the government programme “Solidarity Corps”, managed by the NFI. This programme provides comprehensive support for building long-term relationships between volunteers and organisations, while fostering civic engagement through meaningful volunteer activities.

 

The Solidarity Corps offers, among other tools, its own dedicated online platform - the Volunteer Support System (SOW) - which enables volunteers and organisations to communicate, post opportunities, and match volunteer work with community needs. Participants in the programme can benefit from diverse forms of support, including training, counselling, educational vouchers, and mini‑grants for implementing volunteer‑led community projects. Organisations may take part in a certification process and apply for the title of “Volunteer‑Friendly Place”, as well as join the educational programme “School of Good Volunteering.” In addition, programme participants take part in the annual Volunteer of the Year and Coordinator of the Year competitions of the Solidarity Corps.

 

In 2026, NIW is proudly designated as the UN’s International Volunteer Year National Focal Point in Poland.