US Embassy in Kampala, Uganda seeks applications under the Ambassador’s Special Self-Help Program (Self-Help Program) for supporting the small-scale activities that promote self-reliance and fosters development through innovative community-led projects in the country.
Launched in 1964, the Ambassador’s Special Self-Help Program (Self-Help Program) has become one of the most successful grass-roots development assistance tools in Africa. This innovative program gives U.S. Ambassadors and Mission staff the ability and resources to support small sustainable community-based initiatives that have an immediate and dramatic impact on local communities.
Program Eligibility
All Special Self-Help projects are community-based, initiated locally, administered at the local level, and include significant community contributions in cash, labor or materials. Organizations that apply for the Self-Help Program must be registered with the Government of Uganda.
Selection Criteria
- Foster community self-reliance;
- Have significant community participation and contributions – volunteer time and labor, donated land, equipment and/or materials;
- Have a significant impact, benefiting the greatest number of people possible;
- Help improve basic economic or social conditions at the local community or village level;
- Be viable and sustainable in terms of finance, personnel support, and necessary expertise and services;
- Fall within the ability of the local community to implement;
- Be completed in one year or less.
- Priority will be given to applications that describe clearly how the project will improve the quality of life in the target community.
Size of Grants
Grant awards will be made between February and July 2013, depending on the availability of funds. The maximum grant award for any one project is $25,000 and represents a one-time U.S. Government contribution. However, due to limited available funding, most grants awarded are between $1,000 and $10,000. Grants are awarded for a one year period.
Other Details
The Ambassador’s Special Self-Help Program provides money for material and supplies only. Grants are paid in increments directly to the suppliers. Grant amounts are in US dollars to vendors within Uganda. The organizations given Self-Help grants are responsible for locating reliable suppliers and obtaining pro-forma invoices. The Self-Help Program prefers that projects purchase their materials from vendors located in their home areas.
Deadline for submitting the application for the 2012 Ambassador’s Special Self-Help Program is February 1, 2012
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