Deadline: 15-Feb-2026
Civil society organizations (CSOs) in the Pelagonia Region of North Macedonia can apply for the “Community-Based Green Action” sub-grant scheme. This EU-funded program supports local initiatives in environmental protection, climate change mitigation, circular economy, and sustainable urban development. Grants up to €14,500 are available for projects lasting 6–8 months.
Overview of the Community-Based Green Action Fund
The Community-Based Green Action Fund is implemented by CELIM and SONCE under the EU-funded project “Civil Society in Action for Environment Protection and Sustainable Urban Development” (IPAIII2024453-343). It aims to strengthen local CSOs, promote sustainable urban development, and foster inclusive citizen participation in environmental decision-making.
Key Objectives
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Enhance the role of CSOs in environmental protection and sustainable urban development.
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Promote responsible environmental stewardship and climate change mitigation/adaptation.
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Support circular economy models and innovative waste management solutions.
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Encourage citizen participation, including marginalized groups such as Roma communities and informal waste collectors.
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Foster collaboration between CSOs, municipalities, and local institutions.
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Create models for sustainable cities and communities aligned with EU environmental standards.
Funding Details
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Total budget: €87,000
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Maximum grants: €14,500 per initiative
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Number of initiatives supported: up to 6
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Duration of projects: 6–8 months
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Funding covers 100% of eligible costs with no co-financing requirement
Why It Matters
This fund enables local CSOs to implement impactful environmental projects, align community initiatives with EU sustainability policies, and engage citizens in decision-making. It strengthens the capacity of CSOs to address climate change, pollution, and sustainable urban development at the local level.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants must:
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Be a civil society organization (CSO) legally registered and operational in the Pelagonia Region of North Macedonia.
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Have been established for at least one year.
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Be directly responsible for the preparation and management of the proposed action.
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Demonstrate a proven track record in local initiatives.
Co-Applicant Requirements:
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At least one co-applicant must be a municipality or relevant public institution in Pelagonia.
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Additional CSOs may join as co-applicants if they meet the same eligibility criteria.
What Projects Are Funded
Funded projects must:
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Focus on environmental protection, climate change mitigation, or sustainable urban development.
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Promote circular economy practices and pollution reduction.
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Ensure citizen and marginalized group involvement in project planning and implementation.
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Foster partnerships between CSOs, municipalities, and public institutions.
How to Apply
Step 1: Prepare Required Documentation
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Completed application form
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Declarations and supporting documents in Macedonian
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Budget plan showing eligible costs
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Logical framework detailing goals, activities, outputs, and outcomes
Step 2: Identify Co-Applicants
Ensure at least one co-applicant is a municipality or public institution. Optional: additional CSOs can join as co-applicants.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Applications must be submitted according to the call guidelines before the deadline.
Step 4: Evaluation
Applications undergo administrative and eligibility assessment. Successful proposals advance to the grant award stage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Omitting a required co-applicant (municipality or public institution).
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Submitting incomplete documentation.
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Proposing projects outside the 6–8 month duration limit.
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Failing to include citizen or marginalized group participation.
FAQs
1. Can international organizations apply? No. Only CSOs registered and operating in Pelagonia are eligible.
2. Is co-financing required? No. Grants cover 100% of eligible costs.
3. Can multiple CSOs jointly apply? Yes. Additional CSOs can join as co-applicants if eligible.
4. What types of projects are prioritized? Environmental protection, sustainable urban development, climate change mitigation, and circular economy initiatives.
5. What is the maximum grant amount per project? €14,500.
6. How long can projects last? 6–8 months.
7. Who evaluates applications? Applications undergo administrative and eligibility review as per call guidelines.
Key Takeaways
The Community-Based Green Action Sub-Grant Scheme provides Pelagonia CSOs with an opportunity to implement green, sustainable, and inclusive projects. It promotes citizen engagement, climate action, circular economy practices, and collaboration with local institutions. Grants support projects fully, enabling innovative solutions for environmental protection and sustainable urban development aligned with EU principles.
For more information, visit SONCE.