CFPs: Strengthening the Communication Capacity of Grassroots CSOs

The Netherlands Helsinki Committee has launched a new call for proposals to support Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) working in the fields of women’s rights, environmental justice, and anti-corruption. This initiative is designed to boost the effectiveness, resilience, and visibility of grassroots CSOs operating within the EU.

The core goal of this project is to create a more supportive environment for CSOs and to strengthen the promotion and protection of EU values both locally and across Europe. Through this support, the programme seeks to reinforce democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

CSOs will be empowered to raise public awareness and engage citizens through strategic communication campaigns. This includes activities like media outreach, social media enhancement, and the creation of impactful communication materials. The aim is to build greater public understanding and support for core EU principles.

Funding of €7,500 to €10,000 will be available per project, with around 10 grants expected to be awarded per country. Projects can last for up to 12 months.

The expected outcomes include improved public outreach, stronger media engagement, greater collaboration among CSOs, and increased resilience in the face of shrinking civic space. CSOs will also benefit from strengthened communication capacity.

Eligible costs may cover awareness campaigns, publication of digital content, strategy development, and creation of visuals like videos and infographics. However, personal expenses, emergency costs, retrospective activities, and humanitarian support to third parties are not eligible.

This opportunity is open to CSOs registered in Romania, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Croatia, and Portugal. Eligible organizations must work actively to uphold EU values such as human dignity, democracy, freedom, equality, and the rights of minorities.

CSOs affiliated with political or religious groups, or those that have already exceeded the €60,000 funding limit from previous calls, are not eligible.

Applicants must submit a completed application form, a filled budget template, proof of registration, and the organization’s statute. All applications must align with the values and principles laid out by the EU.