FUND FOR MEDIA INNOVATION
ID: 340987Type: Forecasted
Overview

Buyer

Serbia USAID-Belgrade (USAID-SER)

Eligible Applicants

Unrestricted

Funding Category

Other

Funding Instrument

Cooperative Agreement

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes

Original Source

https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/340987
Timeline
    Description

    USAID/Serbia is forecasting a funding opportunity titled "Fund for Media Innovation," aimed at establishing a regional investment fund to enhance the media, information, and communications sector in the Western Balkans. The initiative seeks to create a new legal entity or special purpose vehicle that will invest in small and medium-sized enterprises, startups, and entrepreneurs, particularly those focused on information content analytics, audience measurement, and digital literacy. This effort is part of a strategic commitment to bolster the financial sustainability of the media landscape in the region, with an anticipated capitalization of $20-25 million over five years, supported by a $5 million grant from USAID. Interested parties are encouraged to provide feedback on the draft Program Description by June 22, 2022, and can contact Branislav Bulatovic at bbulatovic@usaid.gov for further information.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Branislav Bulatovic A&A Specialist
    381113064736
    bbulatovic@usaid.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    RFI # 16922RFI001.pdf
    RFI.pdf
    The USAID/Serbia's Request for Information (RFI) #16922RFI001 pertains to the establishment of a regional investment fund focused on enhancing the media, information, and communications sector in the Western Balkans. Issued on June 9, 2022, this RFI is purely soliciting feedback; no funding applications are currently sought. The proposed initiative aims to create a fund with an anticipated capitalization of $20-25 million over five years, backed by a $5 million USAID grant intended to stimulate investment in small and medium enterprises in the region. The fund will prioritize support for entities that uphold freedom of expression and enhance public access to quality information. Particular attention will be given to sectors with limited financing options, including digital media and information services. The document outlines the expected outcomes, which include operationalizing the fund, achieving capitalization through external investments, and eventually enabling USAID's exit after five years while ensuring continued growth for SMEs through reinvestment of proceeds. Respondents are encouraged to provide input on the draft program description and address any potential risks or clarifications required. This initiative reflects a strategic commitment to bolster the financial viability and capability of the information and media landscape in the Western Balkan region.
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