Small Grants Program 2025

Background
The U.S. Mission to Kazakhstan's Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) is offering funding through the Small Grants Program 2025 to support the democratic development and strengthening of Kazakhstan’s government institutions and civil society. This program aims to competitively award small grants to nonprofit, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), civil society organizations (CSOs), and independent local media organizations in Kazakhstan, focusing on priority areas that enhance civic engagement and governance.

Grant Details
The Small Grants Program seeks proposals that address specific themes such as local civic initiatives, women's empowerment, labor relations, environmental concerns, and local governance. The program aims to empower local civil society by equipping organizations with skills in leadership, management, advocacy, and network building. Proposals may target one or more of the following objectives:

1) Increase knowledge of workers’ rights among energy sector workers;
2) Improve collaboration between environmental experts and community groups;
3) Facilitate structured dialogues between citizens and local government;
4) Enhance outreach capabilities of community leaders.

The program also emphasizes support for women’s political participation through training and mentorship initiatives.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations (including think tanks), for-profit organizations, and those based in Kazakhstan. Applicants must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) issued via SAM.gov and a valid registration in SAM.gov. Organizations are limited to submitting one proposal each. Projects related to partisan political activity, charitable services, construction, religious activities, fundraising campaigns, scientific research, or illegal activities are not supported.

Period of Performance
The performance period for funded projects is expected to be between 9 to 12 months. Proposed projects need completion within this timeframe.

Grant Value
The total available funding for this grant opportunity is $200,000. Individual awards range from a minimum of $10,000 to a maximum of approximately $50,000. Anticipated awards are expected to be between 4-5 based on the amounts requested.

Place of Performance
The grant activities will be performed in various regions of Kazakhstan including Almaty Region, Atyrau Region, and East Kazakhstan Region.