Local Governance and Accountability Project

Description

1) Objective

U.S. Embassy Cotonou is pleased to announce an open competition for non-governmental organizations to apply for a Local Governance and Accountability Project in Borgou Department under the Prevention and Stabilization Fund (PSF). This project seeks to improve civic participation and government engagement in marginalized communities in northern Benin, fostering transparency, accountability, and collaboration by providing tools, knowledge, and resources for marginalized communities and their associated civil society groups to actively engage in local governance and the political sphere to achieve representation and receive improved service delivery.

In support of the stated goal, project objectives may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Objective 1: Build capacity of women, minority ethnic groups, LGBTQI+ persons, religious minorities, and in particular internally displaced persons (IDPs) to actively participate in policy dialogue, political processes, and upcoming local and national elections.
• Objective 2: Promote greater civic awareness, citizen engagement and ultimately a more inclusive and responsive political system that better serves the need and aspirations of targeted groups.
• Objective 3: Protect and promote human rights and equal protection under the law of targeted groups and other community at risk.

2) Eligibility

Eligible applicants are Benin-based non-profit/non-governmental organizations (NGOs) with a Registration Certificate, a bank account in the organization’s name, electronic funds transfer information, and a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). They must not be receiving funding for the same activities from other donors or the Government of Benin.

3) Location

Actions must take place in Benin.

4) Budget

The total funding available for the grant is $250,000, intended for a single award. The funding comes from the Fiscal Years 2023-2025 Economic Support Fund (ESF).

5) Application

Applications must be submitted via email to CotonouGrants@state.gov by 11:59 p.m. (WAT or GTM +1) on May 17, 2024. The application package should include all required items as specified in the grant announcement. Inquiries and complete applications should be directed to the U.S. Embassy Cotonou at the provided contact details.