Deadline: 13-Feb-2026
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is inviting civil society organizations in Montenegro to apply for grants aimed at strengthening social cohesion, public trust, and community resilience. The initiative supports inclusive dialogue, counters hate speech, and empowers local communities through municipality-led action plans. A total budget of EUR 36,000 is available to support initiatives across Podgorica, Bijelo Polje, Bar, and Ulcinj.
Programme Overview
The UNDP Social Cohesion and Resilience Grant Call seeks to promote a positive, inclusive, and cohesive social environment in Montenegro.
The programme focuses on rebuilding trust between citizens and institutions, addressing social tensions, and fostering dialogue at the local level through community-driven initiatives.
The selected civil society organization will work closely with municipalities to implement priority actions identified through local dialogue processes and formally endorsed by municipal assemblies.
Implementing and Funding Partners
This programme is jointly implemented by:
-
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
-
United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)
-
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
The initiative is carried out in cooperation with the Government of Montenegro and is financially supported by the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund.
Key Focus Areas and Thematic Priorities
Projects supported under this call must address one or more of the following thematic areas:
-
Transforming the negative impacts of divisive narratives and polarization
-
Countering hate speech and discrimination
-
Strengthening public trust in institutions
-
Promoting inclusive and meaningful dialogue
-
Advancing gender equality and social inclusion
-
Empowering diverse, marginalized, and disenfranchised communities
-
Enhancing institutional responsiveness and accountability
-
Protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms
-
Contributing to sustainable peace and long-term development
Target Municipalities
All proposed activities must be implemented across the following four municipalities in Montenegro:
-
Podgorica
-
Bijelo Polje
-
Bar
-
Ulcinj
The proposal must demonstrate balanced engagement and relevance in each municipality.
Funding Structure and Budget Details
The total project budget is EUR 36,000.00.
Budget allocation details include:
-
EUR 28,000 dedicated to funding selected local initiatives
-
Funds allocated equally across the four municipalities
-
Remaining funds used for coordination, administration, and technical support
The selected organization will manage project funds on behalf of the municipalities and ensure all expenditures align with approved municipal action plans and agreed financial procedures.
Role and Responsibilities of the Selected Organization
The selected civil society organization will act as the primary implementing and coordinating partner.
Key responsibilities include:
-
Managing and administering project funds on behalf of municipalities
-
Providing programmatic and technical support to municipal authorities
-
Facilitating community outreach, awareness, and promotional activities
-
Supporting inclusive dialogue between citizens and institutions
-
Offering legal, administrative, and financial guidance
-
Ensuring timely and effective implementation of approved measures
-
Coordinating closely with municipal counterparts and UN partners
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
Only eligible civil society organizations will be considered for funding.
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
-
Be a legally registered civil society organization in Montenegro
-
Have at least three years of operational experience
-
Demonstrate relevant experience in human rights, social inclusion, dialogue, or related fields
-
Include activities across all four target municipalities
-
Adhere fully to the principles of non-discrimination and respect for human rights
Why This Grant Matters
Social cohesion is essential for democratic governance, peace, and sustainable development.
This grant directly supports local solutions to social tensions by empowering communities, strengthening trust in institutions, and amplifying inclusive voices at the municipal level.
By aligning civil society expertise with municipal priorities, the programme ensures locally owned and sustainable impact.
How the Grant Works
Step-by-Step Process
-
Municipalities identify priority actions through local dialogue processes
-
These actions are formalized as Social Cohesion Pledges and endorsed by municipal assemblies
-
UNDP issues a Call for Proposals for civil society organizations
-
A single CSO is selected to support all four municipalities
-
The CSO manages funds, coordinates activities, and supports implementation
-
Progress is monitored in consultation with municipalities and UN partners
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Submitting proposals that focus on only one municipality
-
Proposing activities not aligned with adopted Social Cohesion Pledges
-
Weak demonstration of human rights and non-discrimination principles
-
Insufficient financial or administrative capacity to manage grant funds
-
Lack of clear coordination mechanisms with municipal authorities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can apply for this UNDP grant?
Registered civil society organizations in Montenegro with at least three years of relevant experience.
Is the funding available for individual municipalities only?
No. Proposals must include activities across all four municipalities: Podgorica, Bijelo Polje, Bar, and Ulcinj.
What is the total funding available?
The total budget is EUR 36,000, with EUR 28,000 dedicated to funding local initiatives.
Can funds be reallocated between municipalities?
No. Funds must be allocated equally and used in line with approved municipal action plans.
What type of activities are encouraged?
Activities promoting dialogue, inclusion, trust-building, human rights protection, and community resilience.
Who manages the project funds?
The selected civil society organization manages funds on behalf of the municipalities.
What is the overall goal of the programme?
To strengthen social cohesion, public trust, and resilience while contributing to sustainable peace and development.
Conclusion
The UNDP Social Cohesion and Resilience Grant Call offers a strategic opportunity for civil society organizations to drive inclusive change at the local level in Montenegro.
By supporting municipalities in implementing community-driven solutions, the programme aims to reduce social tensions, counter hate speech, and build lasting trust between citizens and institutions.
For more information, visit UNDP.
