Call for Proposals: Low-Value Grant Projects for Stakeholder Engagement in Kyrgyzstan

Deadline: 13-Feb-2026

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is inviting NGOs to apply for Low-Value Grant Projects supporting communities affected by uranium legacy sites in Central Asia. Grants of up to USD 15,000 aim to improve environmental safety, community infrastructure, health, economic development, and social protection, with a required NGO contribution of at least 20 percent. Projects must be completed within nine months and comply with local laws and grant restrictions.

Overview

This call under the “Stakeholder Engagement for Uranium Legacy Remediation in Central Asia. Phase III” project, funded by the European Union, targets NGOs operating in Min-Kush, Mailuu-Suu, and Kyzyl-Zhar communities. The program aims to support localized solutions to mitigate socio-economic and environmental impacts of uranium tailings and enhance community resilience.

Focus Areas and Objectives

• Environmental Protection: Pasture management, combating land degradation, and related research

• Community Infrastructure: Repair or restoration of schools, kindergartens, hospitals, electricity lines, drinking water, and irrigation systems

• Health Care: Provision of medical equipment, staff training, and research initiatives

• Economic Development: Job creation, trade promotion, and local business support

• Social Protection: Assistance for vulnerable groups including women and persons with special needs

• Risk Awareness: Raising community awareness of radiological risks and emergency prevention

Funding Details

• Maximum grant per project: USD 15,000

• Mandatory NGO contribution: at least 20% (cash or in-kind support such as property, technical resources, or physical work)

• Project duration: up to nine months from grant agreement signing

• Funding focuses on tangible, community-oriented activities with direct local impact

Eligibility Criteria

• Non-governmental organizations operating in Min-Kush, Mailuu-Suu, and Kyzyl-Zhar

• Projects must align with the focus areas and objectives outlined above

• NGO contribution must be documented and valid (cash or in-kind)

• Compliance with Kyrgyz Republic laws and UNDP grant regulations

Ineligible Uses of Funds

• Salaries or consulting fees for experts, local government employees, or public servants

• Miscellaneous administrative expenses

• Procurement of food or office equipment

• Activities contradicting applicable Kyrgyz legislation

How to Apply

1. Confirm eligibility as an NGO operating in the targeted communities

2. Prepare a project proposal addressing focus areas and objectives

3. Include a budget showing UNDP grant request and at least 20% NGO contribution

4. Submit proposal through the official UNDP application platform before the deadline

5. Ensure all project activities comply with funding restrictions and local laws

Common Mistakes & Tips

• Using funds for salaries, consulting fees, or ineligible expenses

• Failing to provide required NGO contribution documentation

• Proposing projects outside the targeted communities

• Overlooking compliance with Kyrgyz Republic legislation

• Submitting incomplete project descriptions or unclear objectives

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply? NGOs operating in Min-Kush, Mailuu-Suu, or Kyzyl-Zhar.

2. What is the maximum grant amount? USD 15,000 per project.

3. Is NGO contribution required? Yes, at least 20% in cash or in-kind support.

4. What is the project duration? Up to nine months from grant agreement signing.

5. Can funds be used for salaries or consulting fees? No, these expenses are ineligible.

6. Which focus areas are supported? Environment, infrastructure, health, economic development, social protection, and risk awareness.

7. Are there legal compliance requirements? Yes, all projects must comply with Kyrgyz Republic laws.

Conclusion

The UNDP Low-Value Grant Projects empower NGOs to implement targeted interventions that improve environmental safety, community infrastructure, health, and economic opportunities in uranium-affected communities. By requiring NGO contributions and emphasizing compliance with local laws, the initiative ensures sustainable, impactful solutions to pressing socio-economic and environmental challenges.

For more information, visit UNDP.