Democracy Grants Program

The Democracy Commission Small Grants Program was initiated in 1994 as a flexible mechanism for U.S. embassies to support initiatives that contribute to open and competitive political and economic systems and the protection of human rights. The Democracy Commission Grants Program has been implemented in Moldova since 1996, providing support to Moldovan NGOs and mass media to carry out projects throughout Moldova. The U.S. Embassy invites Moldovan non-profit and non-governmental organizations to submit project proposals to the Democracy Small Grants Program. This program supports projects that foster the development and education of civil society in Moldova. It is a focused yet flexible mechanism that provides seed money for unique and sustainable projects, particularly projects that help develop the capacity of non-governmental organizations in Moldova. The selection of the projects is based on the applicants’ ability to demonstrate concrete achievements that can show impact in a given field or in a specific community. Project proposals must address at least one of the following themes: · Strengthening and promotion of civil society, democratic institutions. · Institutionalization of open, pluralistic, and democratic political processes at the local level. · Civic education · Public participation in decision making; · Free flow of information, freedom of speech, transparency in government and good governance; · Confidence building