Democracy Commission Small Grants Program

The U.S. Embassy in Pristina, Kosovo announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out program(s) aimed at enhancing the resilience of civil society organizations (CSO), empowering underserved communities, and fostering inter-ethnic collaboration.

Program Goal:

The 2023 Democracy Commission Small Grants Program has two primary goals. The first goal is to support the growth of Kosovo's democratic institutions and foster a participatory civil society where citizens understand their role in decision-making and actively engage in civic duties. The second goal is to empower Kosovo’s underserved communities, increase their competitiveness in the labor market, and overcome inter-ethnic divisions through reconciliation that counters external malign influences and disinformation that seek to exacerbate and exploit these divisions.

2023 Democracy Commission Small Grants Program's long-term expected outcomes are:

· Sustainable Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) that hold government institutions accountable through active community and citizen engagement at all levels of government.

· Improve inclusivity and integration for underserved communities and ethnic minorities in all aspects of society in Kosovo’s multi-ethnic democracy.

Program Objectives:

This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) aims to solicit submissions that align with the program's objectives through innovative and well-structured activities. Potential applicants should submit a comprehensive plan outlining their approach to one or both of the following objectives:

Objective I: Strengthen the Resilience and Effectiveness of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)

Resilient and effective CSOs catalyze the development of democratic institutions and processes. The program seeks to enhance the resilience and participation of CSOs in the decision-making process and position CSOs as public opinion leaders to effectively advocate for community concerns. The program also aims to strengthen CSOs’ ability to hold government institutions at both central and local levels accountable. Potential applicants may consider directing their activities towards the following sub-objectives:

· Building sustainable collaboration among CSOs

· Encouraging peaceful resolution of conflicts

· Increasing government transparency and accountability

· Advocating for equitable provision of services for all communities

· Strengthening the rule of law

· Supporting independent media and countering disinformation

· Promoting good governance

· Building a vibrant and participatory civil society

Objective II: Empower Underserved Communities and Promote Inter-ethnic Collaboration.

An inclusive society that celebrates diversity of its citizens underpins a successful democracy. The program aims to equip underserved communities with marketable skills and bring together diverse ethnic groups in interactive settings to improve inter-ethnic collaboration. Our aim is to cultivate the next generation of leaders by providing them with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to succeed in higher education and increase their employability potential in their chosen field. Potential applicants are encouraged to incorporate the following activities into their program design, which are not listed in any particular order. This list serves as a starting point and applicants are encouraged to suggest additional or more impactful activities that align with the objective.

· English language classes in innovative, multiethnic learning environments

· STEAM and maker space activities, including animation and coding

· Non-formal education in areas such as Kosovo tourism promotion, technology, etc.

· Journalism/media writing or media literacy activities

· Civic engagement projects

· Multiethnic youth summer camps

· Sports activities

Applicants are encouraged to propose additional innovative approaches to achieve either or both of the above objectives.

If you have any questions about the grant application process, please contact: prisina grants@state.gov.

The following organizations are eligible to apply: • Local not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society/non-governmental organizations. • Independent media outlets, registered in Kosovo.