Deadline: 31-Jan-2026

The Embassy of Japan provides annual operational funding to grassroots and community-based organizations in Mozambique through its Assistance Program for Community Projects (APC). Grants typically provide up to 10 million JPY (~USD 66,650) per project to support initiatives addressing basic human needs, including education, health, water and sanitation. Projects must be completed within one year, and priority is given to programs with clear, sustainable community impact.

Programme Overview

The Assistance Program for Community Projects (APC) reflects Japan’s commitment to sustainable development and grassroots support in Mozambique. It aims to provide operational funding to non-profit organizations enabling them to deliver high-quality, community-focused initiatives.

Objectives

• Support grassroots organizations in delivering impactful development projects

• Address basic human needs such as education, health, and water/sanitation

• Promote sustainable development and community empowerment

• Ensure timely and effective implementation of community projects

Funding Details

• Typical Grant Amount: 10,000,000 JPY (~USD 66,650, subject to exchange rates)

• Project Duration: Maximum of 12 months from grant contract signature

• Audit Requirement: Projects exceeding 3,000,000 JPY must include an external audit, with costs incorporated into the project budget

• Project Scope: Operational support for local development initiatives that respond to urgent community needs

Priority Areas

1. Education

   • Construction of classrooms and school infrastructure

   • Provision of school furniture and educational resources

   • Construction of school latrines and sanitation facilities

2. Health and Sanitation

   • Construction of health centers and maternal waiting homes

   • Installation of water wells and latrines

   • Training for water-management committees and hygiene promotion

3. Other Community Development Initiatives

   • Small-scale irrigation systems and agricultural support

   • Assistance to orphanages and vulnerable populations

   • Gender-focused social action programs

   • Waste management and environmental initiatives

   • Welfare-oriented community interventions

Who is Eligible?

• Non-profit, grassroots, or community-based organizations, including:

  • National NGOs

  • International NGOs

• Not Eligible:

  • Individuals

  • For-profit organizations

  • National or international government organizations, except under extraordinary circumstances (e.g., disaster relief, post-conflict recovery)

Why This Programme Matters

• Provides operational funding to strengthen local initiatives

• Ensures sustainable and inclusive community development

• Addresses urgent human needs in health, education, water, and sanitation

• Supports organizations with direct ties to local communities

• Promotes capacity building for grassroots organizations to deliver high-quality services

How to Apply / Project Guidelines

• Submit a complete application detailing the project objectives, activities, and budget

• Ensure the organization is non-profit and grassroots/community-based

• Include an external audit plan if the project budget exceeds 3,000,000 JPY

• Projects must be completed within one year of grant contract signing

• Prioritize initiatives that directly benefit local communities and demonstrate sustainable impact

Common Mistakes & Tips

• Applying as an individual or for-profit organization

• Submitting projects outside the priority areas (education, health, water/sanitation, community welfare)

• Failing to account for audit requirements for large-budget projects

• Proposing projects without clear timelines or measurable community impact

• Overlooking the requirement that projects be grassroots and community-focused

FAQ

1. Who can apply for APC funding?
Non-profit, grassroots, or community-based organizations, including national and international NGOs operating in Mozambique.

2. How much funding is available per project?
Typically 10,000,000 JPY (~USD 66,650), depending on exchange rates.

3. How long can projects last?
Up to 12 months from the date the grant contract is signed.

4. Are audits required?
Yes, projects exceeding 3,000,000 JPY must include an external audit.

5. Can individuals or government organizations apply?
No, unless in extraordinary circumstances such as disaster or post-conflict relief.

6. What types of projects are prioritized?
Projects addressing education, health, water and sanitation, small-scale development, gender-focused initiatives, and other community welfare activities.

7. Can the grant support operational costs?
Yes, the program provides operational funding to enable high-quality project implementation.

Conclusion

The Embassy of Japan APC provides critical operational support for grassroots and community-based organizations in Mozambique. By funding projects that address education, health, sanitation, and other community needs, the program strengthens local development, promotes sustainability, and ensures long-term impact in vulnerable communities.

For more information, visit Embassy of Japan in Mozambique.