OVERVIEW

FST will make grants to organisations desirous of working on the thematic areas. The Organisational Grants Programme is intended to support and strengthen the capacities of rights based, proactive, participatory and democratic civil society organisations, working for social transformation in north east India. 

The organisation’s efforts should include innovative approaches and methodologies for implementation of programmes that enhance regional learning and networking, creative solutions to critical concerns of the region, and promote peace, equity and social justice.

SUPPORT

The grant will cover reasonable programme related expenses of approved projects, which have the potential for social transformation.

The grant amount may vary depending on the nature and duration of the programme. In view of the limited availability of funds, the large geographical area and wide range of issues to be covered, FST will currently consider proposals from organisations for projects of 1-2 year duration, subject to a maximum grant amount of Rs. 3-5 lakhs per annum. Preference will be given to projects that are able to judiciously leverage modest grants to maximize impact over a large area.

The duration of approved programmes / project is currently limited to a maximum of 2 years. Extensions may be considered only under special circumstances by the Governing Body of FST.

FST will consider applications for Grants from committed organisations in the NE region. However applicants from outside the region, that wish to work on specific issues in the north east with potential of social transformation may be considered.

GRANT CRITERIA

FST will consider applications for:

1. Start up costs for promising new programs that are participatory and rights based in nature
2. Expansion of successful and relevant ongoing programmes
3. Specific time bound interventions in response to critical local situations and needs
4. Fund to match contributions received from other sources or to help raise new resources for appropriate programmes
5. Programmes that are unique and use innovative and creative strategies

FST will NOT consider grant applications for:

1. non secular religious programmes
2. projects located or benefiting people outside NE region
3. activities of government and government agencies and political parties

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Organisations which …

1. have a recognized legal identity (registration, FCRA etc)
2. are credible and transparent
3. have appropriate and relevant experience
4. have clear policy of community involvement and participation
5. have not been black listed by the government
6. will not use the grants to further partisan, political and religious affiliations

Criteria for selection include, but are not limited to, the organisation’s experience and track record; the programme’s relevance to the goals of FST; and the organisation’s ability to accomplish them.

Preference will be given to organisations …                  

1. With activities that are aligned with FST’s thematic areas
2. Managed and led by women, local /indigenous groups 
3. Having a proven track record and demonstrating sustainability
4. Prepared to forge partnerships and network with others working on similar issues

SELECTION

The selection process includes a preliminary assessment by the FST Programme Team. The proposal is then put up to a selection panel, which may include external experts, before final selection of the Organisations, and may involve an interaction or visit to the organisation.  Acceptance for review by the selection panel of the FST, of either a concept note or a full proposal, does not ensure that a Grant will be awarded. The panel’s decision will be final and not negotiable.

The FST grant making meetings are scheduled to be held twice a year, tentatively in March and September.Full proposals must be received at least three months before the meeting. In special cases proposals that are not adequately reviewed in time for one meeting may be carried forward to the next meeting. The entire process from receipt to finalization could take between 3-4 months. FST will notify you of the outcome of your proposal.

EXPECTED OUTCOME

It is expected that projects supported by FST will have one or more of the following outcomes that will result in social transformation in the region.

1. Stakeholders’ well being and development
2. Active involvement and participation of communities
3. Positive change in attitudes and perspectives based on social justice and equity
4. Enhanced local capacity and ownership to implement and sustain programmes
5. Establishing links and network with other districts and communities
6. New, innovative approaches that support initiatives of a regional nature
7. Shared learning and understanding of issues, enhancing regional solidarity
8. Influence on policies at all levels
9. Gender sensitivity and leadership role of women and youth in all aspects
10. Flexible and decentralized ways of working

OGP APPLICATION KIT - click here to download.

FST is not receiving any more applications for grants for the year 2010-11.

LIST OF GRANTEES