The Small Scale Projects (SSP) are one of the instruments of the development cooperation of the Czech Republic. SSP are identified by the respective Embassies of the Czech Republic (through applications submitted by potential implementers) and approved by headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). SSP aims to contribute to the local subject by small-scale development activities in accordance with the beneficiary country´s national development priorities.

The project implementer is a local entity in the country (in this case, Philippines, Federated States of Micronesia, Marshall Islands, Palau, Nauru). This can include educational, healthcare, social, or cultural institutions, non-governmental organizations, cooperatives, local government units, local communities, etc., which will take contractual responsibility for the project’s implementation with the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Manila.

The goal of this bilateral development cooperation tool is not to build the capacity of the implementer, but rather to support its small-scale development activities. A small local project supported by the Czech Republic should not only deliver development outcomes but also contribute to increasing the visibility of the Czech Republic in the respective country. Various projects can be supported, such as those focused on promoting local development, improving health or medical care, reducing poverty, providing access to education, training people in rural areas, protecting the environment, improving the status of women in society, and so on. Through this approach, the Czech Republic supports vital local initiatives that lack sufficient financial resources and need assistance.

The financial grant for a small local project ranges from CZK 200,000 to CZK 500,000 (approximately 8,500 – 21,500 USD). Each organization can apply for a grant for multiple projects, but only one project per applicant can be supported by the Czech development cooperation funds.

A small local project can only be implemented by a local entity with legal status in the country of implementation. Individuals cannot apply for the grant on their own behalf. Funds shall be allocated to non-political and non-governmental group only.

The project must be relevant to the needs and priorities of the target country and aligned with the priorities of the Czech Republic's foreign development cooperation.

The project should be purposeful, economical, and efficient. For this reason, all payments must be documented with receipts. The costs for wages/fees, per diems, accommodation, travel, insurance, vaccinations, and other personal expenses must not exceed 25% of the total budget. It is recommended that the grant does not cover the entire project budget and that co-financing from other sources is secured.

For more information, visit Embassy of the Czech Republic in Manila.