U.S. Mission to Moldova: Seeking Proposals for Democracy Small Grants Program

Deadline: 15 February 2018

The U.S. Embassy invites Moldovan non-profit and non-governmental organizations to submit project proposals to the Democracy Small Grants Program. This program supports projects that foster the development and education of civil society in Moldova. It is a focused yet flexible mechanism that provides seed money for unique and sustainable projects, particularly projects that help develop the capacity of non-governmental organizations in Moldova. The selection of the projects is based on the applicants’ ability to demonstrate concrete achievements that can show impact in a given field or in a specific community.

Themes

Restore confidence in the European path by tackling corruption and state capture while supporting real reforms and tangible economic development for the Moldovan people; adoption of European and international standards and institutional capacity building; promotion of democratic reforms and strengthening democratic institutions.
Bridge divides in Moldovan society by promoting unity, civic engagement and grassroots demand for accountable governance, and independent voices; build a strong and effective civil society that can support accountability and democracy; Civic awareness and engagement that promotes Moldova’s identity as a multi-ethnic state and reinforces connections rather than divisions.
Support a whole and secure Moldova to reduce the strategic risk posed by territories outside of state control: promote confidence building measures and people-to-people contacts that can help bridge divides between the two sides.
Promotion of diversity and tolerance particularly through youth empowerment: The programs may include activities promoting tolerance and respect of ethnic and religious groups, sexual minorities, persons with disabilities, etc.

Grant Information

The U.S. Embassy will consider awarding grants ranging from $1,000 up to $25,000.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility is limited to not-for-profit organizations (NGOs, CSOs, Think-Tanks) officially registered in the Republic of Moldova.
American or other donor country organizations and individuals are not eligible for grants under this program. The organizations without Moldovan registration can apply only as partners through an eligible organization.
Additional Eligibility criteria by funding level:
- Level I: $1,000-$4,999
  - Only organizations without a grant history or organizations without prior grants from the U.S. Embassy or other U.S. Government Agencies may apply for this funding level.
- Level II: $5,000-$14,999: Applicant organizations requesting grants above $5,000 must have:
  - At least one successfully implemented grant from other funding organizations
  - At least 3 years of experience
  - Annual Activity Report for 2016 (Containing both narrative and Financial information)
- Level III: $15,000-$25,000: Applicant organizations requesting grants above $15,000 must have:
  - At least one successfully implemented grant from the U.S. Embassy
  - A functioning board of directors
  - Proven national visibility (Program will check internet presence, social profiles and media coverage for information about the activities implemented by the applicant)
  - A publicly accessible Annual Activity Report for 2016 (Containing both narrative and Financial information)