The "Civil Society Strengthening for Accountability" (CSS4A) initiative is a proposed multi-year program by USAID/Indonesia designed to enhance the capacity and resilience of civil society organizations (CSOs) in Indonesia to strengthen democratic governance, transparency, and accountability. With a projected funding ceiling of $10 million, CSS4A will focus on building a more inclusive and accountable governance system through empowering CSOs and fostering public participation in governance. The project’s implementation will likely focus on USAID/Indonesia’s priority provinces with the possibility of extending to other areas as opportunities for impact emerge.

CSS4A aims to advance several core objectives, including strengthening the institutional and technical capacities of CSOs to effectively monitor government accountability, advocate for justice and anti-corruption, support people-centered justice (PCJ) initiatives, and promote equitable service delivery, especially for marginalized populations, such as transgender communities and individuals with disabilities. USAID envisions that by bolstering the capabilities of these organizations, they can serve as critical advocates and watchdogs for governance reforms and transparency efforts. Furthermore, by engaging directly with marginalized groups, CSS4A seeks to ensure these groups are represented and empowered in Indonesia’s democratic processes.

The approach to achieving these objectives will include providing subgrants to local and community organizations to foster non-violent collective actions and strengthen advocacy platforms. This consortium-based model will likely be led by a U.S.- or non-U.S.-based prime organization, which will coordinate partnerships with local groups. These collaborations will emphasize building resilient social movements, supporting civic education, and encouraging ethical governance. In addition, CSS4A aims to incorporate principles such as gender justice, youth inclusion, and leadership development, ensuring that CSOs can mobilize and sustain coalitions that represent Indonesia’s diverse population.

Eligible applicants for this project may include a variety of organizations, including both U.S.-based and Indonesian entities that have not received extensive USAID funding (less than $25 million over five years), thus encouraging participation from newer or underutilized local entities. USAID’s intent is to co-create the final project structure with the lead implementing organization, fostering a collaborative process that aligns with local needs and enhances sustainable local leadership.

Potential respondents are invited to provide insights to USAID regarding this project’s design, such as ways to overcome challenges posed by shrinking civic spaces, methods to engage the Government of Indonesia and private sector stakeholders, and strategies for leveraging digital and advocacy tools to strengthen civil society engagement. Responses to this RFI are due by November 28, 2024, and must be submitted to USAID’s designated email. Importantly, this RFI is a preliminary step, intended for information-gathering only, and USAID has not yet committed to issuing a formal funding opportunity.