Deadline: 31-Dec-25
Applications are now open for a new initiative aimed at promoting rural development in Montenegro through innovative, youth-driven approaches to social and green economy.
This project is part of a broader effort to strengthen local development models by encouraging dialogue between civil society and local authorities and experimenting with community-led initiatives.
The program seeks to support projects that enhance Montenegro’s transition from traditional economic systems toward sustainable and inclusive models.
The central goal is to encourage innovative approaches to rural development, while the specific aim is to boost social and green economy initiatives that create employment opportunities—especially for vulnerable and marginalized populations.
Through this call, priority will be given to projects that tackle youth unemployment by enhancing digital skills, vocational training, and non-formal education. There is also strong emphasis on supporting youth-led small business development, promoting social entrepreneurship, and encouraging eco-tourism and cultural initiatives that tap into local traditions and products.
The program also aims to foster youth participation in policy-making, strengthen farmers’ associations, and support inclusive community leadership.
In addition, applicants are encouraged to propose projects aligned with themes such as good governance, green procurement, digital innovation, traditional craft preservation, educational advancement, and services for children, women, and people with disabilities. Activities may include trainings, community forums, local advocacy efforts, and partnerships between civil society and public institutions.
Grant support is available under “Lot 1,” which offers funding of between EUR 2,000 and EUR 5,000 per project. The overall envelope for this lot is EUR 49,500. Projects funded under this lot should have a duration of no less than 3 months and no more than 6 months.
Eligible activities include the development and monitoring of local policies, capacity-building for civil society, knowledge exchange programs, strategy development, and dialogue initiatives.
The program expects to fund at least 25 sustainable initiatives that blend social entrepreneurship and environmental responsibility, while fostering community dialogue and civic participation.
Applicants must be legally registered, non-profit entities operating in Montenegro. These may include civil society organizations, social enterprises, or CSO consortia, provided they have been officially registered for at least 12 months prior to the application deadline.
All applicants must be directly responsible for the planning and execution of the proposed projects.
This funding opportunity represents a significant step toward building a greener, fairer rural economy through youth engagement, cultural innovation, and strengthened partnerships between local institutions and communities.
For more information, visit COSV.
