Local and grassroots organizations play a vital role in addressing community needs, strengthening social cohesion, and advancing inclusive development. A new funding opportunity under the Capacity Development Program for Local and Grassroots Civil Society Organizations (CDP-Lg CSOs) ) funded by European Union-Civil Society Fund Plus (CSF +) is now open. Applicants can find full details in the guideline document and must submit their ideas using the Project Idea/Proposal Application Form.
This call invites informal civil society organizations (CSOs) and community-based organizations (CBOs) across Ethiopia to submit project ideas for small-scale, community-driven initiatives. Selected organizations will receive tailored support to further develop their proposals through a co-creation process, alongside access to micro-grants of up to EUR 10,000.
The program is designed to strengthen the role of grassroots organizations in local governance and development. It focuses particularly on groups that are deeply embedded in their communities, including self-help groups, youth clubs, women’s associations, and other informal networks working to improve social and economic conditions.
Applicants are encouraged to propose projects that respond directly to local challenges. Key thematic areas include gender equality and women’s empowerment, social cohesion and peacebuilding, community awareness on rights and social justice, inclusive governance, and economic empowerment. Cross-cutting priorities such as human rights, environmental sustainability, and “Do No Harm” approaches are also central to the program.
In addition to funding, the initiative emphasizes capacity building. Selected organizations will receive guidance to strengthen their operational, financial, and organizational practices, supporting their longer-term development—including pathways toward formal registration where relevant.
The application process begins with the submission of a project idea or proposal using the standard application form. Applications will be assessed based on their relevance to community needs, clarity of design, and alignment with program priorities. Only shortlisted applicants will move forward to the full proposal development stage.
Eligible organizations must demonstrate strong community roots, a focus on vulnerable or marginalized groups, and the ability to implement small-scale activities. The program particularly encourages participation from organizations operating in Afar, Amhara, Benishangul-Gumuz, and Oromia.
