Anti-Corruption Fund Co-Founder Nikolay Staykov Departs Organization

Sofia, Bulgaria – After years of collaboration, the Anti-Corruption Fund (ACF) and Nikolay Staykov have parted ways, the non-governmental organization announced on March 6, 2026. Staykov, a co-founder of the ACF, played a pivotal role in establishing the organization as a leading voice against corruption in Bulgaria.

A Key Figure in Bulgarian Anti-Corruption Efforts

Nikolay Staykov has been instrumental in the ACF’s investigative work, contributing significant energy, experience, and courage to its mission. He was central to several high-profile investigations, including:

• “Eight Dwarfs”: Investigated networks of informal influence within the judicial system.
• “Quick Control List”: Examined similar networks of influence.
• “SGP Leaks”: Focused on informal influence within the judicial system.
• “Uncle Trevichko’s Holding”: Uncovered a cartel allegedly built by businessman Hristo Kovachki.
• “The CorpBank Case: The Missing Names”: Investigated financial and political dependencies surrounding the bankruptcy of Corporate Commercial Bank.
• “Apartmentgate”: Examined questionable real estate acquisitions by politicians and civil servants.

Recognition for Anti-Corruption Work

In 2021, Staykov was recognized by the U.S. Department of State as a Global Anti-Corruption Champion for his “critical role in unveiling high-level public corruption in Bulgaria,” which led to several high-level political resignations [Source: ACF]. His work also helped to galvanize public demand for good governance and the rule of law.

Professional Background

Staykov brings over 20 years of experience in Bulgaria’s media and civil society organizations [Source: LinkedIn]. He previously served as editor and deputy editor-in-chief of Capital Weekly, a leading Bulgarian political and business publication [Source: RUSI]. He is also an OSINT (Open Source Intelligence) trainer and has provided training at institutions such as the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) in Vienna and the American University in Bulgaria [Source: RUSI].

Continued Commitment to Fighting Corruption

The Anti-Corruption Fund stated that its work will continue with the same goal and belief: that fighting corruption and protecting the public interest are vital. The organization expressed its gratitude to Staykov for his contributions and wished him success in his future endeavors [Source: Fakti.bg].