Ambassador’s Special Self Help Program (SSH) Togo

Description

1) Objective 

The Ambassador’s Special Self-Help Program (SSH) is a grass-roots assistance program that allows the U.S. Embassy of Togo to provide financial assistance to small, community-based development projects. Special consideration is given to projects that have the potential to generate income. Examples of successful projects include projects that produce employment and marketable skills (e.g. dressmaking, livestock-raising), acquisition of equipment for technical schools or training programs. All revenues generated by the project should be deposited in a community account to benefit all members of the association.

Every project submitted for Self-Help funding is expected to: (1) improve basic economic or social conditions at the local community or village level; (2) support high-impact, quick-implementation activities that benefit a large number of people within one year without requiring further SSH assistance; (3) involve a significant local contribution in cash, labor, or material, and be within the ability of the local community to operate and maintain; (4) be in direct response to the initiative and aspirations of the local community (the local sponsors of the project, who will also be its prime beneficiaries).

2) Eligibility 

Non-profit organisations are eligible to apply for this funding opportunity.

3) Location 

Actions must take place in Togo.

4) Budget 

Project funding is limited to $5,000. However, the usual grant amount is significantly lower. Requests for smaller grants are encouraged and often have a better chance of obtaining funding.

5) Application 

Proposals are accepted through June 30th yearly to be considered for that year’s funding and can be emailed to sshlome(a)state.gov or sent by post. Every proposal must include: (1) a completed SSH application available in English or French; (2) an estimated budget land title or authorization of land usage, if applicable, (3) a list of members of the community/organisation and the community/organisation charter; (4) a copy of the identification card of the community project manager; (5)  proof of community funds (bank statement) and previous community contributions (purchase of materials and labor cost) and (6) a map of the site.