Helvetas is accepting grant applications from CBOs & CSOs in Bhutan. The deadline to apply for the first cycle is 30th April 2024 at 5pm (BST).

We know that writing applications can be a challenging process so we have put together a Grant Fund Guideline to help you write a strong and competitive application (www.csogrant.bt/how-to apply/guidelines).

If you are still not sure how to get started, here are 5 tips for writing a competitive application:

1. Be clear and concise. Write clearly what you want the project to address, where the activities will be implemented, and how it will benefit its intended community. Clearly outline the objectives, intended results and activities.
2. Follow the instructions. Follow the instructions provided in the guidelines and strictly adhere to the application form. Additional information and papers maybe attached.
3. Remember your reviewer. Your application will be reviewed by the Sub-Grant Committee and Project Steering Committee, who are representatives from different agencies in the country that support civil society growth. The eligible areas for grant funding and the criteria for assessment of the proposals are provided in the guidelines, therefore the applicants should be mindful of those criteria.
4. Make your application stand out. Be clear about what your group will do with the funding and make sure you tell us what impact it will have on your community. The competition for funding is high and you need to make a case for why your work is important to civil society development/ community development in your area/ region. Community engagement, contribution from beneficiaries to the project and innovative ideas to enhance revenue sources for CSOs are encouraged for project ownership and long-term financial sustainability.
5. Be realistic. You are the experts of what needs to be done in your context so tell us what your group wants to do and not what you think we want to hear. The best applications are ambitious but realistic. This also includes the budget – ask for the funding that your group needs to do the work, and not based on the grant fund ceiling amount.