We are an American nonprofit organization established by Ben Affleck and Whitney Williams in 2010 as “the first U.S.-based advocacy and grant-making initiative wholly focused on working with and for the people of eastern Congo”.ECI provides development grants and international advocacy for community-building initiatives in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
We believe every child deserves the chance to reach their full potential. That’s why our programs focus on education, empowerment, and community development. From school supplies to teacher training, each project is designed with love — and powered by your support.
Our vision is a vibrant, peaceful, and self-reliant Eastern Congo where communities, led by women and youth, drive their own social and economic transformation, harnessing local resources, innovation, and global partnerships to create lasting prosperity and dignity for all.
Our mission is to elevate the voices of the Congolese people by promoting peace, resilience, and economic opportunity in one of the world’s most resource-rich yet conflict-affected regions.
We focus on long-term impact

Our vision a vibrant, peaceful, and self-reliant Eastern Congo where communities, led by women and youth, drive their own social and economic transformation, harnessing local resources, innovation, and global partnerships to create lasting prosperity and dignity for all.

Our mission is to elevate the voices of the Congolese people by promoting peace, resilience, and economic opportunity in one of the world’s most resource-rich yet conflict-affected regions.
Today we have an amazing partnership vision to share with you. Our goal is to welcome 1,000 new monthly donors to our community called The River. The River is our monthly donation program made from people around the world who stand with the mothers, the entrepreneurs, and the youth we support!
Whether it’s : $15 — $35 — $75 a month,
Your commitment becomes part of the stable foundation communities can count on. Monthly giving is flexible, you can change your amount or stop at any time. But its impact is constant. Your support is not just a donation. It’s an investment in stability, dignity, and long-term change for communities in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Consider this meaningful next step in sustainable support to grow YOUR impact!
“On behalf of the entire team at KANO FOOD, we want to express our sincere thanks. During the conflict, it has been increasingly difficult to keep working and supporting our producers. Your support gives us new breath. It is more than financial help — it is a reminder that we are not alone.”
“ECI grant will help us maintain our activities, keep our local team in place, and continue supporting affected communities. We sincerely thank Eastern Congo Initiative for their diligence and trust.”
Join our Recurring Donor Community, The River, a dedicated monthly giving community
Our organization truly believes that by working together, we can save more lives than ever before.
Eastern Congo Initiative
P.O.Box 8442
Missoula, MT, 59807
815.329.2896
info@easterncongo.org
Designed By Roland Nyalundja
“We are deeply grateful to Eastern Congo Initiative for their trust and support. We also extend our appreciation to Ben Affleck for his commitment to gender equality and economic development. We will honor this trust with dedication and respect.”