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U.S. Mission to South Africa: Ambassador’s Special Self-Help Program

Deadline: 20-Aug-20

The Ambassador’s Special Self-Help (SSH) program, funded by the U.S. Mission to South Africa, is a grass-roots grant assistance program that allows U.S. Ambassadors to support local requests for small-scale community-based development projects.

The purpose of the SSH is to support communities through modest grants that will positively impact local communities. Preference will be given to organizations that demonstrate sustainability and a clear way to scale up activities.

Funding Information

  • The requested grant amount must not exceed $20,000.
  • The project must be completed by September 30, 2021.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Applicants must be registered non-profit organizations (NPOs) in South Africa.
  • Applicants must have a valid DUNS number
  • The project should help improve basic economic or social conditions at the local community or village
  • The project should be high-impact and benefit the greatest number of people
  • Substantial community participation in the activity is required. Contributions may include labor, materials, land, buildings, or money to ensure the success of the
  • Projects must be self-sustaining upon completion. The U.S. Embassy’s support for the project must be a one-time-only/one grant
  • Projects must be within the community’s ability to maintain and
  • Managers of a project should have evidence that they are financially responsible and will be able to account for funds sent to.

Application will be evaluated on the following factors:

  • Completeness: Did the applicant submit all of the materials requested?
  • Sustainability: Is the project described sustainable in the long term? Will the project continue without additional investment? Are measurements of success adequate?
  • Need: Does the project adequately fulfill a stated need within a community?
  • Budget: Is the budget complete and well defined? Is the budget reasonable?
  • Completion within one year: Can the project be completed in a single year?
  • Community support: Does the project show strong community support?
  • Impact: Does the project benefit the broadest number of beneficiaries possible? Is there a substantial impact on the affected community?
  • Contribution and Group Capabilities: Does the group provide adequate resources and show commitment to the project? Is the group capable of administering the project?

Elements of Successful Projects

  • The project is initiated by the
  • The project plan contains pre-established long-term goals and a coherent plan to keep the project running in the
  • A capable manager who is a long-term community resident is responsible for the project.
  • The project is assisted by a non-biased umbrella organization, such as a local NGO that provides guidance and arbitration on issues when
  • There is strong coordination and communication amongst the grant-recipient group, local leaders, and local government
  • The project makes use of materials and supplies that can be maintained by the community and the use of materials that will not harm the

For more information, visit https://za.usembassy.gov/ambassadors-special-self-help-program/