In a significant move to bolster civil society in Sub-Saharan Africa, the Digital Democracy Initiative (DDI) 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 available for selected partners
- Project Duration: One year, from January 2025 to January 2026
- Focus: Strengthening civil society through digital technology
Overview of the Grant Program
The Regional Support Mechanisms Host Partner/s Grant Program is designed to provide sub-grants to grassroots civil society actors in eligible Sub-Saharan African countries. The program aims to facilitate initiatives that promote inclusive democracy and maintain a healthy civic space at various levels.
Objectives of the Program
The program has several key objectives:
- Develop Support Mechanisms: Adapt, develop, and implement financial and non-financial support mechanisms tailored to the needs of local civil society organizations.
- Engage Local Leadership: Actively involve local civil society leaders in the delivery of interventions, ensuring that the mechanisms benefit those directly involved in the co-design process.
- Advocate for Sustainability: Promote policies that support the long-term sustainability of the resourcing mechanisms and encourage collaboration among civil society organizations.
Scope of the Initiative
CIVICUS is seeking experienced civil society organizations or consortia based in Sub-Saharan Africa to act as regional host partners. The selected partners will engage in a one-year project to implement the co-designed support mechanisms.
Funding Information
- Total Amount: $1,100,000
- Funding Structure: Initial contract with incremental funding based on performance
Expected Outcomes
By the end of the grant period, the following outcomes are anticipated:
- Strengthened Support Infrastructure: Enhanced accessibility to resources that promote inclusive democratic spaces.
- Increased Capacity: Improved capabilities of local collaborators through tailored financial and non-financial resources.
Outputs of the Grant
To achieve the expected outcomes, the program will focus on several outputs:
- Financial Support Mechanisms: Expansion or creation of financial support systems based on regional needs.
- Non-Financial Support Mechanisms: Development of technical assistance programs to empower local civil society actors.
- Sub-Grants Utilization: Effective use of sub-grants to enhance digital capacities and promote inclusive democracy.
- Campaigns and Advocacy: Implementation of advocacy actions to strengthen the ecosystem supporting local pro-democracy initiatives.
Eligibility Criteria
Interested applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a recognized civil society organization with experience in medium-to-large-scale projects.
- Have a strong background in managing significant grants and providing sub-grant funding.
- Possess an extensive network and experience working with civil society in the region.
- Be legally registered in a country within the region or have legal rights to operate there.
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 promoting democracy and civic engagement.
Sources
- Regional Support Mechanisms Host Partner/s Grant Program in Sub-Saharan Africa – fundsforNGOs, fundsforNGOs.
