The SMART Balkans Project has announced the opening of applications for the National Interventions Grant Program 2025, aimed at enhancing participatory democracies and Euro-Atlantic integrations in the Western Balkans. This initiative seeks to empower civil society organizations (CSOs) to foster peaceful and inclusive societies, with a deadline for applications set for October 21, 2024.
Key Takeaways
- Deadline for Applications: October 21, 2024
- Total Funding Available: NOK 1,250,000 for 5 grants
- Individual Grant Amounts: Between NOK 150,000 and 250,000
- Project Duration: 6 to 8 months
- Geographic Focus: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia
Objectives of the Program
The SMART Balkans project aims to achieve several specific objectives:
- Strengthen and sustain vibrant CSOs across the six Western Balkan countries.
- Develop robust regional partnerships among CSOs and with EU counterparts and public authorities.
- Enhance the effectiveness of citizen engagement through CSOs to promote security, stability, and governance.
- Raise public awareness about the importance of active civil society participation in development initiatives.
Areas of Focus
The National Intervention Grants will support projects in two primary areas:
- Security and Stability
- Governance
Funding Information
The total funding available for this call is NOK 1,250,000, which will be distributed among five grants. Each grant will range from NOK 150,000 to 250,000, providing substantial support for impactful projects.
Expected Outcomes
The National Intervention Grant aims to create significant societal impacts through:
- Improved quality of life for a considerable number of individuals.
- Introduction of sustainable mechanisms to address social issues.
- Promotion of diversity, equality, and inclusiveness in communities.
- Mobilization of local and national communities to tackle pressing problems.
- Enhanced collaboration between CSOs and government entities.
Eligible Activities
Eligible projects may include, but are not limited to:
- Advocacy campaigns with promotional materials and activities (excluding printed materials).
- Working groups for drafting new laws and strategies, engaging experts and influencers.
- Capacity-building activities, public consultations, and research initiatives.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a civil society organization (CSO) working in relevant thematic areas, excluding political and religious organizations.
- Be directly responsible for project preparation and management, without acting as intermediaries.
This grant program represents a significant opportunity for civil society organizations in the Western Balkans to contribute to the region’s development and stability. Interested organizations are encouraged to prepare their applications ahead of the October deadline to secure funding for their initiatives.
