The Czech Republic’s Embassy in Pretoria has announced their yearly invitation for proposals for Small-Scale Development Projects (SSP) for 2025.
This grant opportunity is open to countries accredited to the Embassy, including Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Lesotho, Namibia, and South Africa.
The deadline for submission of all required documents is 16 September 2024.
Important Dates and Details
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Call for Proposals Open | 27 August 2024 |
| Last Update | 09 September 2024 |
| Deadline for Submission | 16 September 2024 |
| Eligible Countries | Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa |
| Project Implementation Period | March – October 2025 |
| Funding Amount | 200,000 CZK – 500,000 CZK (Approx. 7,800 – 19,500 Euros) |
| Proposal Submission Email | smallscaleprojectscz@gmail.com |
What is the Small-Scale Project (SSP)?
The Small-Scale Project (SSP) is an initiative of the Czech Republic’s Development Cooperation. It focuses on supporting small-scale development activities that benefit local communities.
The main aim is to help countries address their national development priorities through targeted projects. These projects are identified and approved by the Czech Republic’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).
Who Can Apply?
Non-governmental and non-political organizations with legal standing in the countries where the projects will be implemented are eligible to apply for the SSP grant.
Applicants must also be able to sign a contract with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, agreeing to comply with Czech laws.
Key Areas of Focus
Projects must align with the development priorities of the countries in question. Special focus is given to:
- Skills development
- Community development
- Job creation
Project Implementation Guidelines
Projects under the SSP must adhere to the following conditions:
- Start of Implementation: Projects can only begin after the contract is signed.
- Completion Date: All project activities and fund disbursement must be completed by 15 October 2025.
- Administrative Costs: The grant does not cover the administrative costs of the implementing organization.
- Personnel Costs: Costs for salaries, allowances, travel, accommodation, and insurance for project experts must not exceed 25% of the total project budget.
- Sustainability: The project should continue to operate after the grant ends without needing further financial help from the Czech Republic.
- Project Branding: Tangible assets bought for the project must be marked with the Czech Aid logo. For intangible assets, it should be clearly stated that the project is funded by the Czech Republic.
Eligible Countries
The Small-Scale Projects for 2025 are open to organizations from the following countries:
- Angola
- Botswana
- Eswatini
- Madagascar
- Mauritius
- Mozambique
- Lesotho
- Namibia
- South Africa
Proposal Submission Requirements
To be considered for the SSP 2025 grant, applicants must submit the following documents:
- SSP 2025 Identification Form: Two copies of the form are required – one scanned with a stamp and signature in PDF format, and one in XLSX format.
- Proof of Legal Status: A document that confirms the legal standing of the applicant organization.
- Contact Person’s Authorization: A document proving that the project manager is authorized to sign the Identification Form and oversee the project.
- Identification Document: A copy of the ID or passport of the project manager.
- Reference Letters: At least three references or documentation from previous similar projects the applicant has completed.
All documents must be submitted in English via email to smallscaleprojectscz@gmail.com by 16 September 2024. The email subject line should state: “SSP 2025: Name of the Implementer”.
Benefits of the Grant
The Small-Scale Project (SSP) grant offers several benefits to participating organizations and communities:
- Financial Support: The grant provides substantial financial support of up to 500,000 CZK to help organizations implement meaningful community-based projects.
- Capacity Building: By focusing on skills and community development, the grant helps improve the capacity of local organizations and beneficiaries.
- Sustainability: Projects funded by the grant must be sustainable, meaning they can continue to operate without further financial support, ensuring long-term benefits for the community.
- Job Creation: One of the key focuses of the grant is to create jobs within the communities, helping to reduce unemployment and improve livelihoods.
- Recognition: Projects supported by the SSP grant receive recognition from the Czech Republic, which can enhance the credibility of the implementing organization and open up further opportunities for funding or partnerships.
Selection and Contract Signing
Successful applicants will be notified in the first quarter of 2025. They will sign a contract with the Embassy of the Czech Republic, outlining all the terms and conditions of the grant. The project will then be ready for implementation starting in March 2025.
By following these guidelines, applicants can ensure their proposals meet all the requirements of the SSP 2025 grant. This is a great opportunity to bring positive change to local communities in the eligible countries.
For further details, you can contact the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Pretoria or submit inquiries via the provided email address.
Conclusion
The Call for Proposals for Small-Scale Projects 2025 is a valuable opportunity for non-governmental organizations to receive funding and implement community-driven projects.
By focusing on skills development, job creation, and sustainable community activities, the SSP aims to contribute to national development priorities in the eligible countries.
With clear guidelines and financial support, organizations can make a meaningful impact on their communities.