Deadline: September 5, 2023
Applications are open for the USAID Civil Society & Media Activity Youth Leadership Challenge Fund 2023. The Civil Society and Media (CSM) Activity is a five-year program (2022-2027) funded by USAID through the CSM-STAND-LWA, with The Asia Foundation as the lead implementer in Nepal. USAID CSM supports independent civil society and media led by and for women, youth, and marginalized communities to advance public interest, fundamental freedoms, and accountability.
Most activities will focus on Lumbini and Madhesh Provinces, with some implemented in Kathmandu. Qualified civil society organizations from Madhesh and Lumbini provinces are invited to submit applications for the Youth Leadership Challenge Fund.
Objectives of the Challenge Fund
The main objectives of this challenge fund are:
- To develop a new generation of youth civic actors who are capable of actively participating in democratic governance and decision-making.
- To advance the public interest in social change and community development activities through youth-led initiatives in Madhesh and Lumbini provinces; and
- To enhance local civic space and movements in Madhesh and Lumbini by strengthening the capacity of young people.
Funding
- Applicants can apply for grants up to USD $40,000 not exceeding (NPR 5,284,000). The Asia Foundation has no preference for funding level, and applications will be evaluated on the merit of the program with no prejudice to the levels of funding sought.
Eligibility
- Youth-led organizations working in and registered in Madhesh and Lumbini are encouraged to apply.
- Youth-driven organizations working in leadership, advocacy, and engagement of youths are highly encouraged to apply.
- Organizations led by women, youth and marginalized communities will be prioritized.
Application
- Step 1: Email [email protected] requesting the concept note and budget templates with the subject line mentioning “Youth Leadership Challenge Fund”.
- Step 2: Submission of Application: Interested applicants must email the following while applying the application deadline:
- Concept Note: Submit a concept note using the template provided. The concept note should include the overall activities cycle, clearly highlighting the thematic focus area and other components as mentioned in the template. The concept note can be submitted in the Nepali language as well.
- Budget Estimate: Submit the budget using the template available. The instructions for the budget proposal are mentioned in the budget template.
- Other Documents: Along with the concept note and budget, applicants are required to submit the following:
- The organization’s registration certificate
- Organization’s Statute
- Copy of the audit report, if applicable
- List of organization’s board members and staff
All applications are encouraged to be submitted electronically to the following email address: [email protected] with the subject line mentioning “Youth Leadership Challenge Fund” The time stamp provided by the email service provider will be used to determine whether an application was submitted on time.
For more information, visit Youth Leadership Challenge Fund.
