The Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) provides up to ZAR 2,000,000 in funding for small-scale, community-led development projects that address urgent basic needs. The program supports registered non-profit organisations with at least three years of relevant experience, focusing on education, health, social welfare, agriculture and essential public infrastructure. It aims to deliver direct, tangible benefits that enhance human security and improve the quality of life for vulnerable populations.

Introduction

The Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) is a long-running funding scheme designed to support small-scale, high-impact development projects led by credible non-profit organisations. Administered by the Government of Japan through its embassies, the program strengthens human security by helping disadvantaged communities access essential services and improved living conditions.

What the GGP Aims to Achieve

The core mission of GGP is to:

• Address urgent and basic human needs

• Strengthen community resilience and wellbeing

• Improve access to essential infrastructure and services

• Support locally driven, sustainable development solutions

GGP is grounded in the concept of human security, which prioritises protecting people’s lives, dignity and basic rights through practical, community-level interventions.

Key Features of the Funding Programme

Grant Amount

• Up to ZAR 2,000,000 per project

• Equivalent to 20 million Japanese Yen, the standard GGP ceiling

• Final grant amounts may vary depending on exchange-rate fluctuations or approved project adjustments

• VAT and tax charges are not covered

Eligible Sectors

GGP funds essential community-level projects in areas such as:

• Education (classroom construction, school facilities, equipment)

• Health (clinics, medical equipment, maternity services)

• Social Welfare (support for vulnerable groups, shelters, disability services)

• Agriculture (food security, community farming tools)

• Public Infrastructure (water supply, sanitation, community buildings)

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible Organisations

Applicants must be:

• Legally registered non-profit organisations

• Operating in sectors relevant to the proposed project

• Able to demonstrate at least three years of organisational experience

• Capable of directly implementing the project

Eligible entities include:

• Community-based organisations

• NGOs

• Schools

• Hospitals and clinics

• Local governments and municipalities

Who Cannot Apply

• Private companies

• Individuals

• For-profit businesses

• Organisations with no track record or insufficient capacity

Application Limit

• Each organisation may submit only one application per funding cycle.

What Types of Projects Are Supported?

GGP prioritises interventions that:

• Deliver direct and immediate benefits to disadvantaged communities

• Improve or construct basic infrastructure

• Strengthen access to education, healthcare, water or sanitation

• Support poverty reduction and social welfare

• Promote long-term community development and empowerment

Examples of Eligible Projects

• Classroom construction or school refurbishment

• Installation of boreholes or water purification systems

• Clinic upgrades or procurement of medical equipment

• Agricultural projects improving food security

• Community centres supporting vulnerable groups

What Is Not Funded

GGP does not support:

• Commercial or profit-generating ventures

• Academic research or studies

• Projects with unclear or narrow community benefit

• Activities lacking sustainability or local ownership

How to Apply

Step-by-Step Process

1. Confirm Eligibility

Ensure your organisation meets all legal and experience requirements.

2. Identify a High-Impact Community Need

Select a project that addresses an urgent, clearly defined grassroots need.

3. Prepare a Complete Proposal

Your application must typically include:

• Project background and problem statement

• Detailed budget (excluding VAT)

• Expected outcomes and community benefits

• Implementation plan and timeline

• Organisational profile demonstrating experience and capacity

• Quotes for materials, equipment or construction

4. Submit the Application to the Embassy

Applications are submitted directly to the Embassy of Japan in the country of implementation (e.g., South Africa, etc.).

5. Embassy Review & Verification

The Embassy evaluates:

• Organisational credibility

• Community relevance

• Sustainability and long-term impact

• Value for money

• Alignment with GGP priorities

6. Grant Approval & Contracting

Once approved, contracts are formalised under Japanese Government procedures.

7. Project Implementation & Reporting

Beneficiaries must document all expenses, submit reports and display project signage acknowledging GGP support.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Including VAT or ineligible costs in the budget

• Proposing projects outside GGP’s grassroots development scope

• Submitting without sufficient organisational experience

• Weak justification of community need

• Multiple applications in a single cycle

• Overly complex or unsustainable project plans

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can GGP funding cover salaries or operational costs?

Generally, GGP prioritises capital expenses and essential infrastructure; operational costs are rarely funded unless justified.

2. Does the grant need match-funding?

No, but additional funding sources can strengthen the proposal’s credibility.

3. How long does project implementation last?

Timelines vary, but projects should be feasible within a manageable, realistic timeframe (typically 12–18 months).

4. Can local governments apply?

Yes. Local governments and public institutions are eligible if the project fits GGP criteria.

5. Are construction projects allowed?

Yes. Construction or refurbishment of essential infrastructure is a major focus of GGP.

6. Can organisations reapply in future cycles?

Yes, but only one application per cycle is allowed.

7. What documentation is required?

Proof of registration, financial records, project design, quotations and community needs assessment.

Conclusion

The Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects offers a powerful opportunity for registered non-profits to deliver meaningful, community-driven development. With funding of up to ZAR 2,000,000, organisations can implement impactful projects that improve essential services, strengthen human security and support long-term social wellbeing. For groups committed to tangible, grassroots change, GGP represents an accessible and transformative funding pathway.