Deadline: 12-May-2026
The European Commission offers EUR 350,000 grants to support civil society organisations (CSOs) in Kazakhstan, strengthening accountability, transparency, and inclusive governance amid the country’s green and digital transitions. Projects must promote evidence-based policy dialogue, institutional and corporate accountability, and community engagement, with structured financial support for third parties to expand impact.
Overview
The European Commission has launched a call for proposals to empower civil society organisations in Kazakhstan. The programme focuses on enhancing CSOs as independent, effective actors that drive accountable, transparent, and inclusive governance.
The initiative targets the green and digital transitions in Kazakhstan, ensuring civil society plays a key role in shaping institutional and corporate policy, promoting transparency, and fostering responsible business conduct.
Objectives
Global Objective
To strengthen local CSOs in Kazakhstan as independent and effective actors contributing to:
- Accountable governance
- Transparent decision-making
- Inclusive participation in development initiatives
Specific Objective
To enhance the role of CSOs in policy and practice change, through:
- Evidence-based and inclusive policy dialogue
- Stronger linkages between local innovation and national reform frameworks
- Promoting corporate accountability and responsible business conduct
Priority Areas
Applicants are expected to align projects with the following thematic areas:
- Community Accountability and Local Oversight – Engaging citizens in governance processes
- Institutional and Corporate Accountability – Monitoring public and private sector actions
- Regulatory Reform and Transparency – Supporting reforms for open, fair, and effective regulations
- Collective Action and Strategic CSO Alliances – Building partnerships to amplify advocacy
- Use of Evidence and Innovation in Policy – Leveraging research, data, and innovative tools to influence decision-making
Strategic Context
This funding aligns with multiple EU strategies:
- NDICI-Global Europe Instrument supporting civil society in partner countries
- EU–Kazakhstan Multi-Annual Indicative Programme 2021–2027 prioritizing sustainable growth, good governance, social inclusion, and green/digital transitions
- EU-Kazakhstan Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement reinforcing collaboration on governance and development
The programme recognises CSOs as crucial actors in:
- Promoting transparency and monitoring rule of law
- Addressing inequalities and supporting vulnerable populations
- Contributing to community resilience and crisis response
- Engaging in inclusive, participatory policy and decision-making
Funding Details
- Total Indicative Budget: EUR 1,400,000
- Grant per Project: EUR 350,000
- Coverage: 90–95% of total eligible project costs; applicants must secure remaining balance from other sources
- Third-Party Support: Projects must include mechanisms for financial and operational support to local actors to increase outreach and impact
Eligible Costs Include
- Activities aligned with the thematic priorities
- Evidence collection, research, and policy engagement
- Capacity-building and training for local CSOs or third parties
- Public awareness, advocacy, and outreach initiatives
Ineligible Costs
- Profit-making activities
- Costs unrelated to project objectives
- Activities outside Kazakhstan or unrelated to governance and transparency
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants are non-profit legal entities, including:
- Non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
- Associations of NGOs
- Organisations established in Kazakhstan or an EU Member State
Applicants must:
- Partner with co-applicants if applicable
- Take direct responsibility for project implementation
- Include structured support mechanisms for third parties, specifying selection criteria, eligible activities, and funding allocation
How to Apply
- Check Eligibility: Confirm your organisation is a non-profit legal entity based in Kazakhstan or the EU.
- Develop Proposal: Outline objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, budget, and third-party support mechanisms.
- Submit Application: Follow the European Commission’s official submission process.
- Project Implementation: Execute activities in line with thematic priorities and deliverables.
- Monitoring and Reporting: Ensure compliance with EU financial and operational standards, including documentation for third-party support.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly link your project to green and digital transitions
- Demonstrate how CSOs will influence institutional or corporate policy
- Include measurable outputs for accountability, transparency, and inclusion
- Provide a feasible budget plan covering 90–95% of costs and third-party support
- Emphasize partnerships and collaboration with local CSOs and community stakeholders
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Failing to secure co-funding for the remaining 5–10% of project costs
- Ignoring the requirement for third-party support mechanisms
- Submitting proposals outside the EU/Kazakhstan eligibility scope
- Proposing activities unrelated to governance, accountability, or green/digital transitions
- Overlooking EU reporting and documentation requirements
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply?
Non-profit legal entities such as NGOs or associations of NGOs established in Kazakhstan or the EU.
2. What is the grant amount?
EUR 350,000 per project.
3. What percentage of project costs does the grant cover?
90–95%; applicants must secure the remaining 5–10% from other sources.
4. Are partnerships allowed?
Yes, co-applicants can participate, and structured support to third parties is required.
5. What thematic areas are prioritised?
Community accountability, institutional and corporate accountability, regulatory reform, collective action, and evidence-based policy innovation.
6. Can projects outside Kazakhstan be funded?
No, project activities must be implemented in Kazakhstan.
7. What are third-party support requirements?
Applicants must provide clear selection criteria, eligible activities, and funding allocation mechanisms for third-party partners.
Conclusion
This European Commission funding opportunity empowers civil society organisations in Kazakhstan to strengthen accountability, transparency, and inclusive governance during the country’s green and digital transitions. By promoting policy influence, corporate accountability, and community engagement, the programme fosters resilient, responsible, and participatory civil society capable of driving sustainable change.
For more information, visit European Commission (EC).
