Public Call for CSOs under ReLOaD3 Programme in Istog/Istok (Kosovo)

The Municipality of Istog/Istok, in partnership with UNDP, invites Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to submit project proposals for the Regional Programme on Local Democracy in the Western Balkans 3 (ReLOaD3). The program focuses on economic development, social well-being, environmental protection, and youth empowerment in Kosovo, with grants ranging from €5,000 to €30,000. Projects are expected to be implemented between May 2026 and April 2027.

Overview

The ReLOaD3 program aims to strengthen local governance and enhance the collaboration between municipalities and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) across the Western Balkans, with a specific focus on Kosovo. This program builds on the success of its predecessors, ReLOaD1 and ReLOaD2, to continue supporting local democratic processes and civil society engagement in the region.

The total funding for ReLOaD3 is USD 13.4 million, with USD 1.4 million allocated specifically for Kosovo, funded by the European Union through IPA III, co-funded by UNDP, and participating local governments.

Priority Areas for Project Proposals

The Municipality of Istog/Istok is calling for project proposals from CSOs in the following priority themes:

1. Economic Development & Environmental Protection

• Development of tourism: Focus on mountain, cultural, recreational, and rural tourism

• Promotion of local products and services

• Support for local businesses through promotion, networking, and capacity building

• Environmental initiatives: waste management, urban greening, and environmental awareness

2. Social Well-being & Inclusive Participation

• Support for social well-being, including health initiatives and inclusive participation

• Promoting the inclusion of persons with disabilities in public services

• Gender equality and empowering women and girls

• Encouraging citizen participation in decision-making processes

• Supporting women and youth in leadership roles

3. Youth Empowerment

• Engaging youth through educational, artistic, cultural, and sports activities

• Supporting Local Youth Councils and formal youth groups

• Organizing youth camps (educational and sports-based)

• Strengthening the engagement of youth in local community activities

Available Funding and Application Process

The total funding available for this call is approximately €53,000, with grants ranging from €5,000 to €30,000. Projects must be implemented within a period of six to twelve months from May 2026 to April 2027.

Eligibility Criteria

• Non-profit organizations operating within Kosovo

• Experience in working within the Municipality of Istog/Istok in at least one of the priority areas

• Organizations must not be involved in conflicts of interest, such as relationships with municipal officials, and must not provide false information or attempt to influence the evaluation process.

Exclusion Criteria

Applicants will be excluded from consideration if they:

• Have conflicts of interest, including involvement of municipal officials in their organizational structures or projects

• Provide false information or engage in activities that affect the transparency and fairness of the evaluation process

• Attempt to improperly influence the evaluation process

Project Duration and Timeline

• The duration of funded projects can be between 6 to 12 months, with implementation expected between May 2026 and April 2027.

• All proposals must be submitted before the deadline to be eligible for consideration.

How to Apply

1. Review Eligibility: Ensure your organization is eligible and the project aligns with the priority areas.

2. Prepare Proposal: Develop a clear project proposal that addresses the selected theme, detailing objectives, expected impact, and sustainability.

3. Submit Proposal: Submit the completed proposal, ensuring all required documents and information are included.

4. Adhere to Deadlines: Submit applications within the given timeframe to ensure eligibility.

Key Dates

• Application Deadline: The exact submission date has not been specified but must be submitted before the end of the call period.

• Implementation Period: From May 2026 to April 2027.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What is the focus of the ReLOaD3 call for proposals?
The call focuses on three core areas: economic development, social well-being, and youth empowerment, with an emphasis on tourism, local business support, gender equality, environmental protection, and youth engagement.

2. How much funding is available?
The available funding for this call is approximately €53,000, with individual grants ranging from €5,000 to €30,000.

3. Who is eligible to apply for the grants?
Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations with experience in the Municipality of Istog/Istok and alignment with the program’s priority areas.

4. How long will the funded projects last?
The projects must be implemented over a period of 6 to 12 months, beginning in May 2026 and completing by April 2027.

5. Can an organization apply if it has previously received funding under ReLOaD2?
Yes, organizations can apply for this phase of ReLOaD3, provided they meet the eligibility criteria and focus on the outlined priority areas.

6. Are there any exclusions or ineligible activities?
Projects involving conflicts of interest, false information, or improper influence will not be considered. Additionally, projects that do not align with the priority areas or objectives of ReLOaD3 are ineligible.

Conclusion

The ReLOaD3 program provides Civil Society Organizations in Kosovo, specifically in the Municipality of Istog/Istok, with an incredible opportunity to secure funding for impactful projects focused on economic development, environmental sustainability, social inclusion, and youth empowerment. With grants between €5,000 and €30,000, this initiative promotes collaboration between CSOs and local authorities to improve community service delivery and strengthen local governance.