The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is seeking applications for funding aimed at implementing the Citizen Engagement and Elections project (CEE) which will focus on citizen education, mobilization and political engagement activities in the period leading up to the June 2012 parliamentary elections in Mongolia.
Purpose
The purpose of the project is to encourage greater citizen participation, mobilization and education in the months preceding the 2012 parliamentary elections in Mongolia. As Mongolia ascends to the Presidency of the Community of Democracies in mid-2011 it will be under considerable scrutiny to provide a strong example for greater transparency and accountability in its democratic processes. In addition, the emphasis on strengthening the NGO sector opens the door for the CEE project implementation. CEE will focus on the increased participation of civil society and NGOs in the elections process to increase civil society’s role in the campaign and electoral process, and thereby strengthening accountability and encouraging transparency.
Three core activities will be introduced to this end; 1) building the capacity of NGOs relative to the project’s objectives, 2) focusing on citizen mobilization and education, in particular youth and women, and 3) integrating information and communication technologies (ICT) for greater outreach and information sharing potential.
The project will fund up to three (3) entities, and is open to both international and Mongolian nongovernmental organizations. Target applicants are local civil society organizations and NGOs which meet the eligibility criteria. Applicants who meet the criteria may apply for up $450,000.
Project Components
This project is designed around three complementary components:
1) building capacity of NGO’s to provide voter education, mobilize citizens and enhance their role in politics;
2) creating an engaged citizenry and spurring civic mindedness leading up to and in the wake of the 2012 elections; and
3) integrating and highlighting technology as a means of communication and information dissemination to enhance NGO efforts and increase connectivity among voters.
Eligibility Information
This RFA is open to local and international NGO’s and nonprofit entities with the ability to quickly mobilize and initiate activities in Mongolia. Given the protracted implementation time, the ability to commence with project activities soon after the award is made is a crucial factor. Organizations must demonstrate a strong familiarity with the political environment and operating context for NGO’s in Mongolia, exhibit thorough knowledge of the election cycle and campaign season issues, presenting a strong narrative that demonstrates a deep understanding of the interplay of government and citizens and a relevant and well-constructed framework to respond to the issues discussed above, as well as indicate any other, additional issues that may not be covered in this RFA. Applicants must show ability or the potential to conduct outreach and connect to and organize voters, strong analytical and writing/messaging abilities including the ability to create and produce outreach materials and an adept understanding of the local political-social cultural values.
USAID encourages applications from potential new partners. However, partners with current and past USAID experience will be equally considered.
Last date for submission of application is September 16, 2011
For more information and details, visit this link and search by Funding Opportunity Number 438-11-000001
