In a significant move to bolster civil society in Sub-Saharan Africa, the Digital Democracy Initiative (DDI) team at CIVICUS has announced a new grant program aimed at enhancing inclusive democracy through financial and non-financial support mechanisms. This initiative seeks to empower grassroots organizations to utilize digital technology effectively, ensuring a vibrant civic space across the region.
Key Takeaways
- Grant Deadline: October 23, 2024
- Total Funding: $1,100,000
- Project Duration: January 2025 to January 2026
- Target Region: Sub-Saharan Africa
Objectives of the Grant Program
The primary goal of the grant program is to enable local civil society organizations in the Global South to leverage digital technology for promoting inclusive democracy. The specific objectives include:
- Development of Support Mechanisms: Launching one financial and one non-financial support mechanism prototype tailored for civil society in the region.
- Engagement of Local Actors: Actively involving local civil society leaders in the implementation of these mechanisms to ensure they meet the community’s needs.
- Advocacy for Sustainability: Promoting policies that support the long-term sustainability of these resourcing mechanisms.
Scope of the Program
CIVICUS is seeking experienced civil society organizations or consortia to act as regional host partners. The selected partners will:
- Adapt and implement the support mechanisms co-designed with local civil society.
- Engage in a one-year project focusing on enhancing the capacity of local organizations.
Funding Information
The total funding available for this initiative is $1,100,000, which will be allocated incrementally based on performance. This funding aims to:
- Strengthen existing financial support mechanisms or create new ones as needed.
- Provide tailored technical assistance to local civil society actors.
Expected Outcomes
By the end of the grant period, the program aims to achieve several key outcomes:
- Strengthened Support Infrastructure: Enhanced accessibility to resources that promote inclusive democratic practices.
- Increased Capacity: Improved capabilities of local organizations through both financial and non-financial support.
Outputs and Activities
To realize these outcomes, the following outputs are anticipated:
- Financial Support Mechanisms: Development of new or enhanced financial support systems based on regional needs.
- Non-Financial Support Mechanisms: Creation of tailored technical assistance programs to build resilience among local civil society actors.
- Campaigns and Advocacy: Implementation of advocacy initiatives to influence stakeholders and strengthen the ecosystem for pro-democracy efforts.
Eligibility Criteria
Organizations interested in applying must meet the following criteria:
- Be a recognized civil society organization with experience in medium-to-large-scale projects.
- Have a proven track record in managing significant grants and providing sub-grant funding.
- Possess a strong network and experience working with civil society in the region.
- Be legally registered in a country within Sub-Saharan Africa.
This grant program represents a vital opportunity for civil society organizations in Sub-Saharan Africa to enhance their capabilities and contribute to a more inclusive democratic landscape. By leveraging digital technology and fostering collaboration, the initiative aims to create a robust support system for local actors committed to civic engagement and democracy.
Sources
- Regional Support Mechanisms Host Partner/s Grant Program in Sub-Saharan Africa – fundsforNGOs, fundsforNGOs.
