Small Grants Program

USAID's Small Grants Program (SGP), administered by Development Alternatives, Inc. (DAI) <http://www.dai.com> supports Timor-Leste’s communities, organizations, and government in their efforts to build a stable, economically robust, democratic country. USAID's in-kind grants help selected groups do their work more effectively by providing them with vital services and supplies, such as technical assistance, training and equipment. Every grant supports at least one of USAID's three strategic areas of focus in Timor-Leste: accelerating economic growth, strengthening good governance practices, and improving health.

Through SGP, DAI manages a large number of in-kind grants awarded directly to local organizations. In support of these grants, DAI provides procurement and transport assistance to local grant recipients. DAI also awards cash grants to international organizations whose activities help achieve USAID's objectives. In addition, SGP has awarded a wide range of grants to support the government of Timor-Leste.Accelerated economic growth activities focus on strengthening the economy through improving markets and access to financial services. Viable businesses and income-generating activities rely on a solid base – an educated and productive population. SGP, therefore, prioritizes activities that:

• provide skills training, expand job prospects and increase economic opportunities for youth
• boost literacy and numeracy rates throughout the country
• emphasize livelihood security and practical skills development

Support for good governance practices build on and strengthen Timor-Leste's young democracy. It is vital that citizens have access to information and are able to participate actively in their government. In addition, the government must be able to provide its services across the country. Small grants can help achieve these goals through activities that:

• improve local government service delivery to the population
• support oversight institutions
• improve access to balanced public information
• support civic education initiatives

Activities that improve health seek to better the lives of Timor-Leste’s people, especially women and children at great risk. Anticipated results include substantial improvements in key health outcomes in the short and medium terms, as well as strengthening of national and local institutions. Small grants complement other health interventions by supporting activities that:

• improve health care service delivery thorough nutrition programs

SGP is DAI's third contract with USAID to manage its small grant activities in Timor-Leste. Since opening its first office in Timor-Leste in November 1999, DAI has implemented more than 800 grants for USAID amounting to approximately $25 million.

SGP General Proposal Guidelines(pdf)

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