The PlanetRomeo Foundation’s Annual Report for 2023 provides an overview of its efforts to support LGBTQIA+ communities worldwide. The Foundation’s activities are structured around three key funding themes: community organizing, shelter, and sports or culture. The report also introduces a new Theory of Change, aiming to enhance the safety and equality of LGBTQIA+ individuals through targeted projects and partnerships. Notable achievements include the provision of emergency relief to partners in Uganda following the passing of the Anti-Homosexuality Act and funding diverse projects that foster community building and empowerment. The Foundation’s governance practices and financial operations are also detailed, emphasizing transparency and efficiency.
In 2023, Planet Romeo Foundation conducted three regular funding rounds in addition to the Uganda Emergency Funding. We received a total of 169 applications (excluding those for emergency funding) and approved 50 projects, distributing a total of EUR 288,535. Including the emergency funding for Uganda, we approved 60 applications, amounting to EUR 328,535 for the year.
Our Theory Of Change
In October 2023, our board developed a Theory of Change (TOC) to clarify how our activities contribute to our goals. The TOC outlines our mission to promote LGBTQIA+ safety and equality worldwide. We focus on achieving outcomes in mental health, legal rights, and decolonization through project funding, communicating about our partners’ projects, and serving as a stepping stone for further funding. Our aim is to create a “flywheel” effect, where empowered communities and movements continue to grow and support each other. By listening to and learning from our global partners, we leverage their insights for greater impact and advocacy.
Project Results
1. Community Engagement:Establishment of community centers and safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals, fostering increased engagement and empowerment.
2. Capacity Building:Educational programs on LGBTQIA+ and human rights, including make-up workshops for transgender people, enhancing self-perception and trauma recovery.
3. Economic Empowerment:Vocational training and job creation for LBTQ womxn, addressing economic challenges.
People Involved: 13,037 participants, including diverse LGBTQIA+ groups, were engaged in the projects.
Impact on Communities: Projects promoted LGBTQIA+ visibility and challenged societal stereotypes, with a focus on advocacy for legal and social changes, particularly in Uganda.
Fundraising
The PlanetRomeo Foundation receives more funding requests from LGBTQIA+ organizations than we can fulfill. To increase our impact and support more organizations worldwide, we have set goals to grow our funding budget. After refining our new online application tool to better support our partners, we hired a new part-time freelance staff member to assist with implementing the platform, project administration, and evaluations. In 2023, we refocused on articulating the changes we aim to achieve for the LGBTQIA+ community, helping us communicate our mission more effectively to potential funding partners. We also welcomed an experienced Communication board member and began developing a new communication strategy focused on fundraising. To further our efforts, we have allocated part of our 2024 budget for hiring expertise in fundraising. Additionally, we renewed our connections with LGBTQIA+ business networks like Workplace Pride and other organizations such as Give a Damn Foundation, Aidsfonds, and COC.
Down and read the annual report (2023)