Deadline: 31-Dec-2025
The Norwegian Helsinki Committee (NHC) invites proposals for its Small Grants Programme supporting human rights, democracy, and civic activism in Central Asia. Grants range from $500 to $9,999 USD, with projects running from January 2025 to October 2026. Applications are open until 31 December 2025, 12:00 Almaty time, for NGOs, civil society groups, journalists, activists, and individuals.
About the Small Grants Programme
The Norwegian Helsinki Committee’s Small Grants Programme aims to strengthen human rights and democratic values across Central Asia. The programme prioritizes local and community-based organizations, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas, to address pressing human rights challenges and promote civic engagement.
Key objectives include:
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Protecting vulnerable and at-risk populations from discrimination and persecution
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Supporting democratic reforms and civic participation
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Improving access to justice for victims of human rights violations
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Documenting abuses to combat impunity
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Promoting independent media and defending press freedom
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Strengthening fundamental freedoms and rights
While these objectives provide guidance, all initiatives promoting human rights, democracy, or civic activism will be considered. Local civil society actors best understand community needs, and innovative proposals are encouraged.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
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Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society groups
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Human rights defenders, activists, and journalists
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Individuals and unregistered initiatives committed to human rights advocacy
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Exiled or diaspora groups implementing projects outside Central Asia
Note: Well-established organizations with stable funding are not the primary target. Only one application per applicant is allowed. Journalists and bloggers working to strengthen independent media or protect press freedom are fully eligible.
Funding and Project Details
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Grant Amount: $500 – $9,999 USD
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Eligible Countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
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Project Duration: January 2025 – October 2026
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Application Languages: English or Russian (form available only in English)
Projects outside Central Asia may be considered, particularly for exiled initiatives.
How to Apply
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Prepare Your Proposal: Outline objectives, target population, activities, and expected outcomes
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Confirm Eligibility: Ensure your organization or initiative meets programme criteria
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Complete Application Form: Form is in English; submissions can be in English or Russian
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Submit Before Deadline: Applications due 31 December 2025, 12:00 Almaty time
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Review Process: NHC will assess submissions after the deadline and notify applicants in the following weeks
Tips for a Strong Application:
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Focus on local impact and community relevance
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Provide clear, measurable objectives and outcomes
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Highlight innovative approaches to human rights protection or civic engagement
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Align proposed budget with project activities
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Submitting multiple applications
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Incomplete project descriptions or unclear objectives
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Ignoring focus on human rights, democracy, or civic activism
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Missing the application deadline
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Submitting in unsupported languages
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can individuals apply for funding?
Yes, individuals promoting human rights, democracy, or civic activism are eligible.
2. Are projects outside Central Asia considered?
Yes, particularly for exiled initiatives or diaspora groups.
3. What is the maximum grant amount?
Grants range from $500 to $9,999 USD.
4. Can journalists or bloggers apply?
Yes, especially those promoting independent media and press freedom.
5. When must projects be implemented?
All projects must take place between January 2025 and October 2026.
6. Can proposals be submitted in Russian?
Yes, although the application form is only available in English.
7. How will applicants be notified?
Applicants will be informed by NHC in the weeks following the application deadline.
Why This Programme Matters
The Small Grants Programme provides critical support for emerging human rights defenders and civil society actors in Central Asia. By funding locally driven initiatives, the Norwegian Helsinki Committee empowers communities to protect vulnerable populations, strengthen democratic values, promote justice, and defend fundamental freedoms.
Conclusion
The Norwegian Helsinki Committee Small Grants Programme is a strategic opportunity for NGOs, activists, journalists, and individuals to make a meaningful impact in Central Asia. Timely and well-prepared applications can advance human rights, support democratic reforms, and strengthen civic engagement, creating lasting change in communities across the region.
For more information, visit Norwegian Helsinki Committee.