About

The European Commission is now accepting grant applications to contribute to the development of organized civil society at the local level in Burundi.

The initiative aims to strengthen the engagement of local civil society organizations (CSOs), including grassroots community-based organizations (CBOs), as key actors in promoting good governance and sustainable development across the country.

The program focuses on three main priorities. First, it seeks to enhance the technical, organizational, and financial capacities of Burundian CSOs by providing tools, targeted training, and close support, ensuring the effectiveness and local ownership of their initiatives. Second, it encourages strategic advocacy actions with local elected officials and political decision-makers to foster institutional ownership and promote public policies that support community and sustainable development. Third, the program emphasizes economic and social empowerment of women, young people, and other vulnerable groups—such as unemployed youth, out-of-school children, orphans, and single mothers—through local economic development and job creation activities, following the Local Economic and Employment Development (LEED) approach.

The total indicative budget for this call is 4,842,000 EUR, with individual grants ranging from 1,000,000 EUR to 1,500,000 EUR. Each project must have a planned duration of 36 to 48 months, providing sufficient time to implement and consolidate the proposed actions.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include legal, non-profit civil society organizations registered in Burundi, as well as national or international CSOs or associations of CSOs. Applicants may also include co-applicants and affiliated entities, all of which must be directly involved in preparing and managing the proposed action. Grants may cover eligible costs either as reimbursement or through non-cost-related funding, depending on the structure of the project.

This call offers an important opportunity for civil society organizations in Burundi to strengthen their capacities, influence local governance, and contribute to inclusive and sustainable development while addressing the social and economic needs of vulnerable populations.

Post Date: December 17, 2025