Strengthening Government through Civil Society Engagement

The U.S. Embassy in Belmopan, Belize announces a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to strengthen democratic governance through civil society engagement. The U.S. Embassy in Belmopan intends to issue awards in an amount not to exceed $750,000 USD in FY 2019 Economic Support Funds (ESF), pending availability of funding. The anticipated start date for successful proposals is September 30, 2020. U.S. Embassy Belmopan anticipates funding three to five awards between the amount of $100,000 and $250,000 USD each for this NOFO. Applications are due on June 3rd, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern time (Washington, D.C).

This NOFO and submitted proposals should concentrate on S.O. 2.1 and 2.3 of the Results Architecture and focus on Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) working with national and/or local government, particularly in vulnerable and/or marginalized communities. The projects should strengthen the partnership between government and CSOs to (1) enhance public services, (2) curb human trafficking, or (3) promote anti-corruption, transparency, and accountability. Namely, the projects should foster collaboration among CSOs and government to strengthen, expand, or complement public service delivery, including education and health; to enhance the skills of the front line persons to identify and prevent human trafficking, and improve protection for its victims as well as increase public awareness of its impact; or to reduce corruption and promote transparency and accountability across all levels.

Funding awarded under this NOFO cannot be used for law enforcement or to train members of law enforcement.

U.S. Embassy Belmopan reserves the right to fund any or none of the applications submitted and will determine the resulting level of funding for each award. The authority for this NOFO is found in the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended.

Eligible organizations interested in applying are encouraged to read this NOFO thoroughly to understand the type of project sought and the application submission requirements and review process.