Democracy Commission Small Grants Program

The U.S. Embassy Tashkent Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Department of State is seeking grant applications for its Democracy Commission Small Grants Program. This program supports the development of Uzbekistan's democratic institutions and civil society by competitively awarding small grants to Uzbekistan's nonprofit, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), civil society organizations (CSOs), and independent local media organizations. Applicants must first submit a 3-page Statement of Interest (SOI) by February 28, 2025, which will undergo a merit review. Selected applicants will then be invited to submit full proposal applications, which will go through a second merit review before final funding decisions are made.

The program will award up to 12 grants ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 each, with a total available funding of $500,000. Projects should be completed within 6-12 months and are expected to start on October 1, 2025. The program operates under CFDA 19.900 (AEECA/ESF PD Programs) and supports initiatives in Uzbekistan focused on women's business empowerment, combating gender-based violence, strengthening disability rights, and improving air quality/environmental issues.