Deadline: 25 October 2019

The Australian High Commission in Port Louis is currently accepting applications for its 2019-20 Direct Aid Program (DAP), a small-grants scheme that aims to support non-profit organisations working in local communities on activities that support sustainable and inclusive development.

Priorities

• Women’s Economic Empowerment
• Human Rights/Governance
• Disaster Risk Management/Climate Change Adaption
• Health

The High Commission will look favourably at projects that have a disability focus.

Funding Information

Applicants must seek a grant of up to AUD$40,000.

Eligibility Criteria

• DAP funding is available for government registered local or international organisations, academic institutions, research bodies or other organisations/agencies engaged in development activities on a not-for-profit basis.
• The High Commission expects this current round to be very competitive. The number of approved projects is likely to be lower than in previous years.
• Applications can be submitted for projects in Mauritius (including Rodrigues), Comoros and Madagascar. Regional projects including Seychelles participants may be considered, but due to ODA eligible criteria, DAP funds are not able to be used to fund Seychelles participation and this component must be covered by other funding sources.
• Applications may be submitted by individuals, or groups on behalf of an NGO, or other implementing organisation as part of a partnership. In this case, the applying organisation must take responsibility for the management and acquittal of DAP funds. The implementing organisation must be involved in preparing the application, and be available to answer any additional information required during the evaluation process.

Eligible Projects

Preference is given to projects that:

• Show tangible and practical development outcomes and have involved beneficiaries in identifying, designing and managing the project;
• Are innovative and creative, particularly those using technology;
• Comply with local laws and have the demonstrated support of local authorities, including traditional leaders, district councils/assemblies and local governments;
• Pay special attention to youth and gender issues; children and other disadvantaged groups; and
• Are sustainable. Proposals need to demonstrate a commitment on the part of beneficiaries to implement the activities and maintain them beyond the conclusion of the project.

The following activities are not eligible for funding under the DAP:

• Australian or overseas study tours;
• Grants programs run by other governments or organisations;
• Micro-credit schemes and commercial ventures;
• Costs of catering (ie food and drinks) for promotional/launch events associated with DAP projects, including the cost of obtaining media coverage;
• Routine, recurring and/or running costs of the applying organisation including: staff salaries; office rental and utility costs; spare parts; office supplies; routine maintenance and repairs; purchase of major assets such as property or vehicles; and payment of consultants, where this would constitute a major cost component of the project;
• Administrative costs not directly related to project implementation;
• Projects, including commemorative events, sporting tournaments or cultural displays, that do not have clear developmental outcomes;

Note: Projects which include ineligible components can be considered only if the proposal clearly states how these ineligible components will be funded by sources other than DAP.

How to Apply

Interested applicants can apply online via the given website.

For more information, please visit https://mauritius.embassy.gov.au/plut/DAP2019-2020ENG.html