The Kingdom of the Netherlands opens a call for proposals in the framework of the NFRP – MATRA for regional cooperation in the Eastern Partnership countries.

The goal of this pilot program is to explore and support opportunities for cross border CSO cooperation in the Eastern Partnership region in the field of democratization, good governance and strengthening of the rule of law.

Through this programme interested partners from across the EaP region can apply for funding of projects in the field of:

• Democratization processes;
• Development of the rule of law;
• Strengthening public institutions, and
• Support and development of civil society.

Funding Information

• Maximum allowed grant is 80.000 EUR (min. 15% contribution from the project applicants; In-kind (non-financial) contribution is allowed. Grant cannot be used as a bridge funding to other projects funded by the NL.
• Duration of the implementation of the activity (project) should not exceed 12 months (from the moment of start of the project).

Eligibility Criteria

• Eligible initiatives must cover at least 2 EaP countries and focus on capacity building through activities like, for example: trainings, experience sharing, twinning, study visits, thematic workshops, etc.
• Special preference will be given to projects involving at least one of the following countries: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus.
• Program is open to the Civil Society in the EaP region (Eligible types of actors: registered and non-registered NGOs, CSOs, media related organizations). A combination of different types of actors is welcomed but not obligatory.
• Organizations with a strong connection with and focus on the EaP region that are located in an EU country are also eligible to apply, on condition  to involve at least 2 partners located in different EaP countries into the project.
• “EaP regional approach” is of crucial importance: minimum 1 actor per targeted EaP country and minimum 2 EaP countries must be involved. (Consortium of min. 2 partners from min. 2 EaP countries; at least 1 partner per 1 EaP country).
• Applications are submitted in English. An application is a combination of the project proposal, detailed budget of the project (in Excel) and Partnership agreement (signed by all partners involved in the project.)  Applicants are advised to use the provided application form.

For more information, visit Kingdom of the Netherlands.