ATRC was established in October 2001 as a key implementing partner for the USAID/EWMI Kosovo NGO Advocacy Project (KNAP). Initially, it was part of the Forum, but later moved under the auspices of the Foundation for Democratic Initiatives (FDI), which led to its independence as a non-governmental organization (NGO) in June 2003.

The initial goal of ATRC was to create a vibrant advocacy training and resource center. During 2002 – 2005, ATRC leads a network of 27 Kosovar NGOs called AvoKo. In September 2005, ATRC formalized a partnership agreement with the International Research and Exchanges Board (IREX) to support the development of Kosovo NGO’s under the USAID funded Kosovo Civil Society Program. Through our enhanced role as a full-service NGO training, resource and information center, ATRC is working to strengthen the autonomy, effectivness, sustainability and impact of the NGO sector as a major catalyst in the development of a vibrant civil society and responsive democratic governance.

It has established an extensive Information Program, consisting of frequent public discussions; a monthly e-newsletter, “The Advocate”; advocacy publications; and a diverse library, with over 600 titles. As a part of it’s Capacity Building Program during Kosovo NGO Advocacy Project (KNAP), ATRC has trained over 700 NGO representatives with it’s 40 available trainers.

Since, 2005, ATRC has it’s own trainers and consultants who trained over 500 NGO representatives in key areas of NGO organizational development, managment, advocacy and fund raising.