The U.S. Embassy Tashkent’s Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) has announced the funding opportunity titled Democracy Commission Small Grants Program. This initiative aims to support Uzbekistan’s democratic institutions and civil society by providing competitive small grants to local nonprofit organizations, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), civil society organizations (CSOs), and independent media outlets. The program focuses on advancing women’s business empowerment, combating gender-based violence, strengthening disability rights, and promoting citizen-led environmental initiatives. Through these efforts, the program seeks to enhance social inclusion, economic development, and participatory governance in Uzbekistan.

The primary objectives include fostering women's entrepreneurship and leadership, increasing awareness and prevention of gender-based violence, advocating for the rights and integration of persons with disabilities, and addressing environmental challenges such as poor air quality and climate change. Specific activities may include leadership and technical training for women entrepreneurs, awareness campaigns to challenge harmful gender norms, capacity-building for disability rights organizations, and citizen-led environmental projects focused on sustainable solutions and policy advocacy. Each project should aim for measurable outcomes such as increased business participation by women, reduced incidents of gender-based violence, improved integration of disabled individuals into society, and actionable environmental policy recommendations.

The total funding available for this program is $500,000, with individual awards ranging from $10,000 to $50,000. The performance period for projects is expected to be between six and twelve months, with up to twelve awards anticipated. Eligible applicants are Uzbekistan-based nonprofit organizations, NGOs, CSOs, and independent media outlets. For-profit organizations may apply, but cost-sharing or matching funds are not required. All applicants must possess a valid Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and maintain active registration in SAM.gov.

The application process involves two stages. In the first stage, applicants must submit a concise Statement of Interest (SOI) not exceeding three pages, clearly outlining their project idea, objectives, target audience, and anticipated results. Shortlisted applicants will then be invited to submit a full proposal, including a detailed project narrative, timeline, monitoring and evaluation plan, budget justification, and key personnel details. Proposals must demonstrate alignment with program goals, measurable outcomes, and sustainability plans.

Evaluation criteria include the quality and feasibility of the project idea, organizational capacity, project planning and implementation, cost-effectiveness, monitoring and evaluation plans, and commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). Proposals that demonstrate collaboration with local stakeholders, innovative solutions, and clear pathways for long-term sustainability will be prioritized. Bonus points may be awarded for strong engagement with local communities and integration of DEIA principles.

Successful applicants will be required to submit regular financial and performance reports and comply with federal grant regulations. Final program and financial reports must be submitted within 120 days of project completion. Projects are expected to deliver tangible and impactful outcomes, contributing to the broader goals of social and economic development, environmental sustainability, and democratic governance in Uzbekistan.