Networking grants for CSOs from across the EaP countries

The Transatlantic Foundation (TF), in cooperation with the Black Sea Trust for Regional Cooperation of the German Marshall Fund of the United States, is launching a dedicated call for proposals for CSOs from the EaP countries to apply for networking grants to support collaborative projects. The primary goal is to create new and strengthen existing networks and collaborations.

1. Areas of Support

CSOs can apply for funding to support a variety of networking activities, including but not limited to:

• Regional network-building: Organising conferences, workshops, and online platforms to foster connections and collaboration.
• Cross-border cooperation: Supporting collaborative initiatives among CSOs addressing shared challenges or opportunities.
• Exchanges of best practices: Facilitating the exchange of best practices, lessons learned, and innovative approaches.
• Advocacy: Strengthening the collective voice of CSOs through joint advocacy efforts and policy engagement.

The networking activities can focus on topics such as: democracy promotion, civic engagement, human rights, media, disinformation – misinformation, transparency, rule of law etc.

2.  Funding Details

Each grant will cover logistic and content related costs for different format convenings. This financial support aims to empower CSOs to build a vibrant regional network capable of collectively tackling common obstacles, capitalizing on emerging possibilities, and driving positive change for civil society across the region.

The grants are in the amount of EUR 30,000 covering a project duration of up to 12 months.

3.  Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the grant, CSOs must:

• Demonstrate the capacity to lead a regional networking/cooperation project.
• Projects must include organizations from at least 3 EaP countries. 
• CSOs registered (if possible) and active in an EaP country.
• Demonstrate a clear need for the proposed funding and how the project will strengthen an existing partnership/network or create new collaborations.

4. Application Process

Interested CSOs are invited to submit applications in response to this call for proposals by filling out in detail the following forms: 

• Application form
• Budget form

5. Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Actively contribute to fostering and /or creating new partnerships in the EaP region.
• Must demonstrate an innovative approach to engaging CSOs across different countries and creating long-lasting collaborations. 
• Feasibility and clarity of the project plan.
• Cost-effectiveness of the proposed budget.

6. Submission

Proposals should be submitted by e-mail to mcocos@gmfus.org by October 4, 2024. Please include “Networking Grant Application – [Your Organization’s Name]” in the subject line.

An info session about this call will be held on September 20, 2024, at 11 am Bucharest Time. If you want to participate, please register here, until September 17, 2024.