Deadline: 24-Dec-2025

The ReLOaD3 program in Bosnia and Herzegovina empowers civil society organizations (CSOs) to engage in local governance, enhance citizen participation, and support EU integration in the Western Balkans. Funding is available across three lots (5,000–50,000 KM) for projects implemented in Bihać between February and December 2026. The program prioritizes partnerships with local government units, youth and minority inclusion, and initiatives promoting human rights and sustainable community development.

Programme Overview

The ReLOaD3 program aims to strengthen participatory democracy and accelerate sustainable development in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It encourages collaboration between CSOs and local authorities to:

• Foster an enabling environment for civil society

• Ensure transparent public funding and accountability

• Promote citizen participation in public policy development, implementation, and monitoring

• Support the country’s EU integration process

Objectives

• Enhance coordination between CSOs and local governments

• Strengthen democratic participation and inclusion of marginalized groups

• Improve local public services through sustainable partnerships

• Promote human rights, minority rights, and social inclusion

Funding Details

• Project Location: Exclusively within the city of Bihać

• Project Duration: 4–10 months (depending on the funding lot)

• Funding Lots:

  • Lot 1: 5,000–15,000 KM

  • Lot 2: 15,000–25,000 KM

  • Lot 3: 25,000–50,000 KM

• Application Limits: Organizations may submit multiple applications, but total funding across all 14 partner local governments cannot exceed 120,000 KM.

Who is Eligible?

• Formally registered CSOs (associations or foundations) under Bosnia and Herzegovina law

• Projects may include partnerships with other CSOs, documented with:

  • Certified Partnership Statement

  • Registry extract for all partner organizations

• Focus areas must align with program priorities, including youth, disability, social inclusion, human rights, and minority rights

Why This Programme Matters

• Strengthens CSO capacity to engage with government units

• Enhances citizen participation and democratic decision-making

• Promotes inclusive policies addressing the needs of vulnerable groups

• Supports EU integration and sustainable development goals

• Encourages collaborative partnerships for long-term community impact

How to Apply / Project Guidelines

• Submit a complete project proposal aligned with one of the three funding lots

• Demonstrate collaboration with local government units and potential partners

• Include project objectives, activities, timeline, budget, and expected outcomes

• Ensure all partner organizations are legally registered and provide required documentation

• Projects must be implemented within Bihać between February and December 2026

Common Mistakes & Tips

• Exceeding the total funding limit across multiple applications

• Submitting proposals without required partnership documentation

• Targeting non-eligible locations outside Bihać

• Failing to address program priorities such as inclusion, human rights, or local service improvement

• Incomplete or unclear project timelines, budgets, or objectives

FAQ

1. Who can apply for ReLOaD3 funding?
Formally registered CSOs in Bosnia and Herzegovina, including associations and foundations.

2. Can organizations submit multiple applications?
Yes, but total funding across all 14 partner local governments cannot exceed 120,000 KM.

3. Where must projects be implemented?
Projects must take place exclusively within the city of Bihać.

4. What are the funding amounts for each lot?
Lot 1: 5,000–15,000 KM, Lot 2: 15,000–25,000 KM, Lot 3: 25,000–50,000 KM.

5. Can CSOs partner with other organizations?
Yes, partnerships are allowed but must be documented with a certified Partnership Statement and registry extracts.

6. What types of projects are prioritized?
Projects promoting youth inclusion, disability access, social inclusion, human rights, minority rights, and improved local public services.

7. What is the expected project timeline?
Projects must be implemented between February and December 2026, lasting 4–10 months depending on the funding lot.

Conclusion

The ReLOaD3 program offers a strategic opportunity for civil society organizations in Bihać to strengthen local democracy, foster collaboration with government units, and deliver impactful, inclusive projects. By supporting partnerships, promoting rights-based initiatives, and addressing community needs, the program contributes to sustainable development and the EU integration process in the Western Balkans.

For more information, visit UNDP.