The United States Mission in Geneva is accepting project proposals for its fiscal year 2020 Small Grants Program.

Programs can include, but are not limited to, academic and professional lectures or panel discussion; exhibitions and cultural programs; professional and academic exchanges; professional development workshops and training; or public awareness campaigns.

Priority Program Areas

Though all submitted projects will be considered for funding, currently giving priority to projects that highlight:

• Human rights, including protection of human rights defenders
• Freedom of religion or belief
• Promoting peace and security
• Public-private partnerships
• Preserving core UN values
• Promoting transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the UN system

Funding Information

• Length of performance period: up to 12 months
• Award amounts: Typical awards range from $5,000 to $15,000
• Anticipated program start date: No later than September 1, 2020

Eligibility Criteria

• U.S. Mission Geneva welcomes applications from both individuals and organizations based in Geneva or abroad.
• Registered not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society/non-governmental organizations, individuals, non-profit or educational institutions, and governmental institutions are eligible to apply.
• For-profit or commercial entities are not eligible to apply.
• Eligible proposals will be subject to compliance of U.S. Federal and Public Diplomacy regulations and guidelines, and may also be reviewed by the Office of the Legal Adviser or by other State Department elements.
• Proposals will be funded based on an evaluation of how the proposal meets the solicitation review criteria, U.S. foreign policy objectives, and Mission priorities.

Evaluation Criteria

• Quality and Feasibility of the Program Idea – 25 points: The program idea is well developed, with detail about how program activities will be carried out. The proposal includes a reasonable implementation timeline.
• Organizational Capacity and Record on Previous Grants – 25 points: The organization has expertise in its stated field and has the internal controls in place to manage federal funds. This includes a financial management system and a bank account.
• Program Planning/Ability to Achieve Objectives – 15 points: Goals and objectives are clearly stated and program approach is likely to provide maximum impact in achieving the proposed results.
• Budget – 10 points: The budget justification is detailed. Costs are reasonable in relation to the proposed activities and anticipated results. The budget is realistic, accounting for all necessary expenses to achieve proposed activities.
• Monitoring and evaluation plan – 15 points: Applicant demonstrates it is able to measure program success against key indicators and provides milestones to indicate progress toward goals outlined in the proposal. The program includes output and outcome indicators, and shows how and when those will be measured.
• Sustainability – 10 points: Program activities will continue to have positive impact after the end of the program.

For more information, visit Grants.gov.