Ambassador’s Self-Help Program Burundi

Description

1) Objective 

The Self Help Program is designed to provide funding, under the direction of the U.S. Ambassador, to small projects initiated at the local community level that are not covered under regular USAID programs. The program is managed by Embassy personnel, with funding from USAID.

The projects selected for SSH funding should demonstrate the following characteristics: (1) improving basic economic and social conditions at the community or village level; (2) supporting high impact implementation activities which benefit a large number of people within one year without further SSH assistance; (3) involving significant local contribution in cash, labour, or material and are within the ability of the local community to operate and maintain; (4) being in direct response to the initiative and aspirations of the local community; and (5) being respectful of environmental norms.

2) Eligibility 

Community based organisations are eligible.

3) Location 

Actions must take place in Burundi.

4) Budget

The funds must be spent within 12 months after they have been granted. Maximum grant funding is $14,000 but normally grants range around $5,000.

5) Application 

Proposals may be submitted all year long. Project proposals should include the following information: (1) project objectives; (2) description of the organisation that will execute the project; (3) description of the submitted project; (4) and the budget. The application form and a budget sample can be downloaded on the Embassy’s website. Project proposals are to be addressed to the Small Grants Coordinator at the American Embassy in Bujumbura.