GUIDELINES

  1. Micro-projects

1.1The objective is to assist NGOs to improve their quality of services to their beneficiaries.

1.2Funding of micro projects will be up to a ceiling of Rs150, 000.

1.3Priority will be given to operational NGOs, that is, those providing services on a permanent basis.

  1. Social entrepreneurship projects

2.1The objective is to:

(i)empower NGOs to broaden and diversify their funding base through engaging into income generating activities; and

(ii)pursue the economic empowerment of their beneficiaries who fall in the category of the marginalised groups in society.

2.2Funding of social entrepreneurship projects will be up to a ceiling of Rs 500,000.

Disbursement will be done in instalments subject to satisfactory progress report.

2.3Funding of the general operations of an NGO will not be considered. However, operational costs directly associated with the project are allowed. Also, applicants should ensure that the project budget is not made to bear the overall operational costs of their organisation.

  1. General Criteria

NGOs applying for micro project/social entrepreneurship project should:

(a)be registered with the Registrar of Associations for a minimum period of 2 years;

(b)run on a non profit making basis;

(c)work towards either the empowerment of the vulnerable groups (the disabled, elderly, homeless, ex detainees) or the welfare of the community in general;

(d)have a proven track record of activities or experience in their respective field for a minimum period of 2 years;

(e)operate on a non sectarian basis and should not discriminate on the basis of race, place of origin, political opinion, colour or creed;

(f)show ability to attract funds from different sources;

(g)have a financial management system which exhibits transparency;

(h)be able to submit latest audited annual financial statements certified by the Registrar of Associations;

(i)preferably have a seat, i.e an administrative office with a contact person;and

(j)have adequate management capacity.

  1. Ineligible projects/activities

The following types of projects/activities will not be considered for funding:

(i)Construction of new buildings;

(ii)Payment of salaries;

(iii)Overheads;

(iv)Workshop and seminars; and

(v)Research work.

  1. NGO contribution

Applicants should ensure that they can meet at least 25% of their total cost of project (either in kind or in cash).

  1. Application

6.1For micro project, applicants should use Format 1A.

6.2For social entrepreneurship project, applicants should use Format 1B.

6.3Applications should be supported by relevant documents as requested.

6.4Incomplete applications,applications not submitted as per prescribed format,handwritten applications will not be accepted.

  1. Rodrigues

As regards Rodrigues, applications with all required documents should be submitted either to the Ag. Officer in Charge NGO Trust Fund at the above-mentioned address or the Departmental Head, Commission for Youth and Community Development, Library Services, Arts and Culture and Others, Rodrigues Regional Assembly, 1st Floor Alfred North Coombes House, Port Mathurin, Rodrigues, by 15 February 2018 at 1530 hrs at latest.