Request for Applications: Direct Aid Program (India)

• Post Date: August 21, 2024
• Deadline Date: September 10, 2024
• Donor Name: Australian Consulate-General in Chennai
• Grant Size: $10,000 to $100,000

Overview

The Australian Government’s Direct Aid Program (DAP) offers grants to support small-scale sustainable development projects in India. This initiative also aims to build positive linkages between Australia and communities in India.

Funding Information

• Grant Amount: Typically around INR 10 Lakh.
• Community Benefit: At least 90% of the grant must directly benefit the target community.
• Duration: A DAP grant cannot exceed one year.

Eligible Projects

High-quality applications are welcomed for projects in Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and the Union Territories of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry. Projects could focus on:

• Women’s empowerment and gender equality
• Inclusion of minorities, including LGBTIQ+ people
• Disability inclusion
• Support for Indigenous people
• Clean energy, climate change adaptation, and environmental sustainability with a development focus (e.g., irrigation, urban planning, rejuvenation, water conservation)
• Maritime security and the blue economy
• Sport for development
• Community health
• Education

Key Considerations

• Impact on Disadvantaged Groups: All projects should consider the impact on women, children, and disadvantaged groups such as people with disabilities.
• Measurable Performance Indicators: The proposal must contain measurable performance indicators.
• Sustainability: Projects should be self-sustainable with a commitment from local authorities or beneficiaries to sustain the project beyond the grant period.
• Contribution: Recipients are expected to make a reasonable contribution to the activity, either in cash or in-kind.

Eligibility Criteria

• Eligible Applicants: Individuals, community groups, academic institutions, and NGOs engaged in development activities on a not-for-profit basis.
• FCRA Approval: For project proposals in India, organizations must have a valid Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) approval.

Ineligible Expenses

The following are generally not funded:

• Cash grants or micro-credit schemes
• Commercial ventures
• Purchase of major assets (e.g., vehicles)
• Australian or overseas study tours
• International travel
• Sponsorship of major sporting tournaments or cultural displays without clear developmental benefits
• Staff salaries
• Routine, recurring running costs and administrative expenses (e.g., office rental, utility costs, spare parts, routine maintenance)

For more information, visit the Australian Consulate-General in Chennai.

For regular updates, join their WhatsApp Group.