Advancing Digital Democracy in Serbia
ID: 354334Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

Serbia USAID-Belgrade (USAID-SER)

Award Range

$5M - $5M

Eligible Applicants

Unrestricted

Funding Category

Education

Funding Instrument

Cooperative Agreement

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes

Original Source

https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/354334
Timeline
    Description

    The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is inviting applications for the "Advancing Digital Democracy in Serbia" initiative, aimed at strengthening digital democracies that uphold citizens' fundamental rights within the digital landscape. This cooperative agreement seeks to provide capacity building, advocacy, and technical support to a diverse range of stakeholders, including government entities, civil society, media, academia, and the private sector, with a focus on developing legal and regulatory frameworks that align with international human rights obligations. The total funding available for this program is approximately $5 million, with a potential additional $3 million contingent on performance and funding availability, and interested applicants must submit their proposals by July 7, 2024. For further inquiries, applicants can contact Branislav Bulatovic at bbulatovic@usaid.gov or via phone at +381652370860.

    Point(s) of Contact
    bbulatovic@usaid.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    Amendment 1_RFA#72016924RFA00001__Advancing Digital Democracy in Serbia CO signed.pdf
    Amendment.pdf
    Amendment #1 to the Biodiversity and Resilience Activity RFA (72049224RFA00003) provides responses to questions raised by applicants regarding the funding initiative aimed at supporting biodiversity efforts in the Philippines. Key clarifications include: "PD" stands for Program Description, the activity will be conducted in the Philippines (not Mongolia), and successful applicants will receive a VAT Exemption Certificate. The anticipated award is a cooperative agreement. Applicants are required to develop a Social Impact Assessment and Implementation Plan Abstract for submission alongside their technical approach, while budget details will only be requested from the Apparently Successful Applicant (ASA). Further information addresses the need for specific partnerships, reporting requirements related to gender, youth, and social inclusion, and the importance of environmental impact assessments. Guidelines on application formatting, submission procedures, and evaluation criteria are also provided. Notably, the document stresses that the Social Impact Assessment is due at the application stage, while the more extensive plan is required post-award. Clarifications regarding cost-sharing, funding allocations, and potential emergency response provisions are also discussed. This amendment serves to streamline the application process and enhance understanding of the requirements for potential applicants, reinforcing USAID's commitment to biodiversity and resilience initiatives in the region.
    Attachment 1_Budget Template.xlsx
    Attachment 2 Bio Form_1420.pdf
    Attachment.bin
    Attachment.pdf
    The document titled "Contractor Employee Biographical Data Sheet" from USAID is designed to gather essential details about individuals proposed for contract positions. Its core purpose is to verify qualifications and assess the suitability of proposed salaries or consultant rates under USAID contracts, as mandated by the Foreign Assistance Act and AIDAR regulations. The form collects personal data, employment history, educational qualifications, language proficiency, and specific consultant services rendered over the past three years. It stipulates that providing this information is voluntary but crucial for timely approval of contract nominees. There are certifications required for both the employee and the contractor, affirming the accuracy of the information provided. Additionally, the document complies with the Paperwork Reduction Act, indicating a structured process for the management and administration of public funds. The focus on detailing qualifications supports USAID's goals of efficient contract administration, integrity in reporting salary rationales, and ensuring qualified personnel are employed in its programs.
    RFA # 72016924RFA00001 - Advancing Digital Democracy in Serbia signed.pdf
    RFA.pdf
    The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Advancing Digital Democracy Activity in Serbia, with the goal of strengthening digital democracies that respect citizens' fundamental rights in the digital ecosystem. The program seeks applications for a cooperative agreement to provide capacity building, advocacy, and technical support to various stakeholders, including government entities, civil society, media, academia, and the private sector. The initial funding amount is approximately $5 million, with a possibility of an additional $3 million contingent on performance and funding availability. The program focuses on creating legal and regulatory frameworks that align with Serbia's obligations under international human rights laws, specifically fostering a safe and inclusive digital environment. Expected outcomes include improved understanding and oversight of technology-related human rights issues, empowerment of independent institutions and civil society, and enhanced public awareness about democratic norms in the context of digital technology. Applicants must adhere to specific proposal guidelines and timelines, ensuring that initiatives support the overall objectives of promoting human rights in Serbia’s digital transition. The application process also emphasizes the need for adaptation based on continuous learning and stakeholder engagement.
    Similar Opportunities
    Digital Alliance Activity in Bosnia and Herzegovina
    Bosnia USAID-Herzegovina
    The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in Bosnia and Herzegovina is seeking information to inform the design of a new initiative called the Digital Alliance Activity, aimed at fostering collaboration among the private sector, civil society, and academia to accelerate digitalization in the country. The initiative's objectives include identifying local stakeholders and potential partners to enhance digital transformation, ultimately benefiting citizens, businesses, and institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This Request for Information (RFI) is not a formal solicitation and responses are voluntary; interested parties are encouraged to submit their insights by June 11, 2024, through a provided Google form. For further inquiries, interested parties may contact Safiya Khalid at sakhalid@usaid.gov or by phone at 033704000.
    USAID/Serbia: Seeking Organizations with Capabilities in Organizational Capacity Building
    Serbia USAID-Belgrade
    The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Serbia Mission is seeking local organizations capable of providing organizational capacity building to enhance the internal policies and procedures of Serbian entities. This Request for Information (RFI) aims to identify interested local organizations that can contribute to strengthening local capacities in Serbia, although it does not constitute a Request for Proposal (RFP) or Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). Interested parties are encouraged to submit a completed information form by December 22, 2023, and can direct inquiries to Dukagjin Hasani at dhasani@usaid.gov. This initiative reflects USAID's commitment to fostering local partnerships and improving community development in Serbia.
    Embassy Belgrade PAS - University Partnership
    U.S. Mission to Serbia
    The U.S. Mission to Serbia is forecasting a grant opportunity titled "Embassy Belgrade PAS - University Partnership," aimed at fostering academic exchanges between Serbian and U.S. institutions of higher learning. The primary objectives of this partnership include strengthening democracy, enhancing human rights, combating brain drain, and promoting regional stability, while also deepening cultural ties between the two nations. Eligible applicants include public universities in Serbia, accredited U.S. universities, and non-profit educational foundations in the U.S. The total funding available for this initiative is $240,000, with individual awards ranging from $40,000 to $240,000, and the application deadline is set for July 20, 2020. For further inquiries, applicants can contact Tatjana Bakraclic at bakraclict@state.gov.
    2024 DRG APS
    Uganda USAID-Kampala
    USAID/Uganda is inviting submissions for the 2024 Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance (DRG) Annual Program Statement (APS), aimed at enhancing civil society and non-governmental organization partnerships in Uganda. The APS focuses on two key areas: media strengthening to promote freedom of speech and expression, and civic education and engagement to empower youth and women in governance processes. This initiative is crucial for fostering a vibrant democratic environment and increasing civic participation among marginalized groups. The total estimated funding for this program is $25 million, with individual awards ranging from $250,000 to $15 million, and the application deadline is July 5, 2025. Interested applicants can reach out to Meghan Waters at Uganda.oaa@usaid.gov for further inquiries.
    RFI Serbia Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) activity
    Kosovo USAID-Pristina
    The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Serbia is seeking responses to a Request for Information (RFI) aimed at informing the design of a new initiative focused on enhancing the integration of Serbian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) into developed markets and value-added chains. The program seeks to address significant challenges faced by SMEs, which represent 98% of businesses in Serbia but contribute only 28% of the GDP, by improving productivity, fostering export expansion, and increasing access to diverse financing instruments, particularly for women, youth, and marginalized communities. Interested organizations and individuals are invited to provide comments and recommendations through a Google survey, with submissions due by April 28, 2021; responses will be confidential and will not be used for any binding agreements. For further inquiries, contact Albert Rexhepi at arexhepi@usaid.gov.
    Iraq Civic Engagement Activity
    Iraq USAID-Baghdad
    The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is inviting applications for the Iraq Civic Engagement Activity, a cooperative agreement aimed at enhancing civic literacy and increasing citizen participation in Iraq's democratic processes. This initiative, with a total funding ceiling of $30 million over five years, seeks to empower marginalized groups and foster trust in governmental institutions through various educational and engagement initiatives. The program emphasizes local leadership involvement and aims to create a politically engaged citizenry capable of actively participating in shaping their communities. Interested applicants must submit a concept paper by January 31, 2025, and can contact Olga Ekkert at oekkert@usaid.gov for further information.
    Democracy Commission Small Grants Program 2025
    U.S. Mission to North Macedonia
    The U.S. Mission to North Macedonia is offering the Democracy Commission Small Grants Program 2025, which provides funding for initiatives aimed at strengthening democratic institutions within the country. This program focuses on five priority areas: enhancing democratic values, fostering civil society and community activism, addressing social division and promoting cohesion, improving cybersecurity and media literacy, and supporting environmental and health initiatives. Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations and independent media based in North Macedonia, with funding amounts ranging from $1,000 to $50,000 and a total program budget of $345,000. Interested parties must submit a one-page Statement of Interest by March 31, 2025, and can direct inquiries to the Mission North Macedonia Public Affairs Grants Management Team at DemComSkopje@state.gov.
    RFI Serbia Environmental Activity
    Kosovo USAID-Pristina
    USAID/Serbia is seeking input through a Request for Information (RFI) to inform the design of a new Environmental Protection Activity aimed at enhancing biodiversity and environmental governance in Serbia. The initiative addresses critical environmental issues, including inadequate resource management and low public involvement, with the goal of establishing new protected areas and improving management capacities. This RFI is part of USAID's commitment to engage stakeholders in shaping effective environmental programs, and responses are accepted exclusively through a designated Google survey by March 17, 2021. For further inquiries, interested parties can contact Dukagjin Hasani at dhasani@usaid.gov.
    Partnerships for Progress
    Nigeria USAID-Abuja
    The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is offering a funding opportunity titled "Partnerships for Progress" aimed at fostering local partnerships for development in Nigeria. This initiative seeks to empower local Nigerian organizations to address various development challenges, including economic growth, education, health, governance, and conflict mitigation, through participatory and inclusive practices that adhere to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) principles. With an estimated total program funding of $250 million over five years and a maximum award ceiling of $40 million, the program encourages eligible local entities, such as NGOs, civic groups, and educational institutions, to propose innovative solutions. Interested applicants must submit their proposals by June 2, 2025, and can reach out to Maria Hassan at mahassan@usaid.gov or by phone at +234-09-461-9300 for further information.
    Iraq Democracy Activity Input - Request for Information
    Iraq USAID-Baghdad
    The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Mission in Iraq has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to gather insights and suggestions for programming aimed at supporting Iraq's democratic transition and civil society development. This RFI seeks input from stakeholders and organizations on enhancing government accountability, fostering citizen engagement, and promoting gender inclusion within the political process. The initiative is crucial for assessing challenges and opportunities for civil society organizations in Iraq, with a focus on improving governance and inclusivity in political structures. Interested parties are invited to submit their responses via email by July 1, 2022, to BaghdadOAADropbox@usaid.gov, and should adhere to the specified submission guidelines, including a maximum of five pages for comments and responses.