The Grant Facility serves the purpose to enable civil society
organizations to contribute to Gross National Happiness by receiving
funds that will be used to promote sustainable development and
strengthen good governance at local and national level. The grant fund
will, through the implemented activities of civil society, lead to an
active and inclusive participation of CSOs and citizenry in democratic
consultations and decision-making processes Whereas the Grant Facility
promotes citizens’ participation and political empowerment processes, it
will also be possible to seek support to economic empowerment
initiatives, especially from women, youth and marginalized groups.
However, this may not exceed 20% of the project proposal’s budget.
Who can apply?
Civil Society Organizations in Bhutan can apply for the Grant
Facility, on the condition that that they adhere to the information
provided in this guideline and they:
- Are an active civil society organization in Bhutan
- Contribute to the achievement of the 11th and 12th Five Year Plan’s good governance results and vision of sustainable development
- Are not already receiving ongoing project support through the Grant Facility
- Demonstrating commitment towards improving the situation of either women, youth or other socially marginalized groups
However, the Grant Facility will pay special attention to support
CSOs that have activities in the 10 poorest Dzongkhags and 10 poorest
Gewogs of Bhutan.
The CSO grants will be awarded to CSO according to the following categories:
Category A:
Organizations registered with the CSO Authority.
- Public Benefit Organizations
- Mutual Benefit Organizations
40% of the total grant funds will be disbursed to CSOs in category A.
Category B:
Community based organizations. These include
- Farmer groups and cooperatives registered under the Cooperatives Act
- Organized but non-registered groups and associations
60% of the total grant funds will be disbursed to CSOs/ CBOs in category B.
What are the areas for CSO support?
In line with the objective of the EU funded project: Support to Civil
Society in Bhutan, CSOs can submit proposals that fall within the
following categories:
Cluster 1: Civic awareness and actions
- participating in and influencing the priorities, planning and decision making of local and central government policies, strategies and plans;
- Role and contribution of civil society to local and national development;
- Social accountability processes and mechanisms;
- Community monitoring of local government plans and budget
Cluster 2: Women’s political and social empowerment
- Women’s leadership and participation;
- Strengthening women’s role and recognition in society
Cluster 3: Socio -economic empowerment initiatives, especially for women and youth groups in
- Sustainable social enterprises;
- Employment generating activities of self-help groups
Cluster 4: Vulnerability reduction initiatives
- Support to initiatives that directly benefit vulnerable groups