U.S. Embassy Praia Ambassador’s Special Self-Help (SSH) Program

U.S. Embassy Praia welcomes the submission of project applications for funding through the Ambassador’s Special Self-Help Program (SSH). If interested, please carefully review the instructions below. The SSH is a grass-roots grant assistance program that allows U.S. Ambassadors to support local requests for small community-based development projects. The purpose of the Special Self-Help Program is to support communities through modest grants that will positively impact local communities. The SSH philosophy is to help communities help themselves. Projects submitted for SSH must align with one or more U.S. Embassy priorities: Economic diversification, including small business creation and income generation Projects must aim to 1) generate sustainable income and employment opportunities in local communities, 2) advance economic diversification and encourage use of local natural resources or income generation, 3) promote a culture of entrepreneurship, and/or 4) improve economic or living conditions of a community. Women start-ups and women entrepreneurs Eligible projects assist women who are launching a business or who are overseeing the early stages of business development (between one to two years). Such projects must promote a culture of women-led entrepreneurship and innovation that can be replicated in the community. Projects must also promote profitable businesses that generate revenue and benefit the community. Social and economic inclusion and creation of opportunities Projects in this category must assist youth, children, women (particularly female heads of household), and other vulnerable groups to gain access to basic services (for example water, sanitation, and primary/pre-K education). They can also assist the creation of opportunities for vulnerable groups, particularly employment for youth. Environmental protection, sustainability, resilience to environmental vulnerabilities, and adaptation to environmental change Eligible projects will increase the capacity of communities to cope with vulnerability to drought and other environmental changes by building resilience, increasing capacity to adapt, and promoting income-generating activities. For example, projects may involve activities to improve water management, diversify agricultural practices, or provide benefits to the environment. Local Community Involvement: Local involvement of...

An SSH project must be submitted by an organized group that is motivated, has identified a real need, and has already successfully implemented projects in the community. The project should be feasible and based on the socio-economic context of the local community. Organizational Requirements: All applicants must be registered Non-Profit Organizations (NPOs). We welcome proposals from Community and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) that work directly with communities. Organizations must be able to demonstrate that they have adequate internal controls and financial systems in place. In order to be eligible to receive an award, all organizations must also have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number issued via www.SAM.gov as well as a valid registration on www.SAM.gov. To be eligible for funding the project must meet the following criteria: The project should help improve basic economic or social conditions at the local community level and have long-term value. The project should be high impact, benefiting the greatest number of people possible. Substantial community participation in the activity is required. Contributions may include labor, materials (bricks, sand, gravel, seeds, etc.), land, buildings, or money that is given to ensure the success of the project. [See the section below on “Local Community Involvement”]. Funding is limited to one project, which must be completed within twelve (12) months or less. Projects must be self-sustaining upon completion. The U.S. Embassy’s support for the project is a one-time-only grant contribution. Projects must be within the community’s ability to maintain and operate. Requests for large-scale agriculture or construction projects, or for expensive equipment are not considered priority projects. Managers of a project should have proof that they are financially responsible and will be able to account for funds sent to them. Having a bank account, or establishing credit with vendors, are examples of such evidence. The requested amount for implementing activities cannot exceed $10,000. Project budgets generally range from $4,000 to $8,000. Limitations/Exclusions from Eligibility: The Self-Help Program may only pay for items and technical assistance that are absolutely necessary for the completion of the project. The program cannot be used for administrative costs, salaries, costs associated with the project...