Democracy Commission Small Grants Program

The U.S. Embassy Public Diplomacy Section announces an open competition for organizations to submit a statement of interest (SOI) to carry out projects that foster the development and education of civil society in Moldova under the Democracy Commission Small Grants Program. The Democracy Commission program is a focused yet flexible mechanism that provides funding for unique, and sustainable projects. The selection of the projects is based on the applicants’ ability to demonstrate concrete achievements that can show impact in a given field or specific community.

Project proposals must address at least one of the following themes:

· Promoting of minority rights and full participation in the political process.

· Advancing women’s rights and full participation in the political process and economic/business/technological fields.

· Supporting efforts to recognize and support LGBTQI+ persons.

· Building awareness and support for persons with disabilities to include their voices in urban design, accessibility, and inclusion.

Please carefully follow all instructions below.

The submission of the Statement of Interest (SOI) is the first step in a two-step process. Applicants must first submit a concise SOI designed to clearly communicate program idea and objectives. This is not a full proposal. The purpose of the SOI process is to allow applicants to submit program ideas for evaluation prior to requiring the development of a full proposal application. Upon a merit review of eligible SOIs, selected applicants will be invited to expand on their program idea(s) by submitting a full proposal application. Full proposals will go through a second merit review before final funding decision are made.

We will be examining closely project proposals to ensure that they do not duplicate existing programs and projects and will view with favor those that specifically identify how their program proposals build on existing efforts, while adding something new that is of value.

This funding opportunity is authorized by the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961.

Priority Region: The Embassy will give priority to projects implemented outside of the major cities of Moldova/

Program Objectives:

· To enhance citizen engagement in advocating for accountable governance, on specific issues.

· To develop more inclusive communities, particularly those that advance the role of minorities, women, LGBTQI+ persons, and persons with disabilities.

The following organizations are eligible to apply: Not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society/non-governmental organizations registered officially in the Republic of Moldova.