The Australian Embassy in Vienna is seeking expressions of interest from community groups, non-government organisations (NGOs) and educational institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina for small grant funding under the 2025-26 Australian Direct Aid Program, which runs from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026.
WHAT IS THE DIRECT AID PROGRAM?
The Direct Aid Program (DAP) is a small grants program funded by the Australian Government and managed through its network of overseas missions. The program plays an important role in supporting local community efforts towards poverty reduction and sustainable development across the globe.
Applicants may submit an expression of interest for a single project up to the amount of AUD 7,500 (Australian Dollars) for the 2025-26 Australian financial year starting 1 July 2025.
WHO CAN APPLY?
DAP funding is available on a not-for-profit basis to NGOs engaged in development activities focused on youth empowerment, women’s empowerment, inclusion and democracy, and/or human rights.
WHAT ACTIVITIES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR DAP SUPPORT?
The DAP program in Bosnia and Herzegovina focuses on supporting small-scale development projects and activities.
Expressions of interest should clearly detail the expected developmental impact of the project in support of youth empowerment, women’s empowerment, democracy and inclusion, and/or human rights. Projects must be self-contained, with a timeline beginning no earlier than 1 March 2026 and concluding no later than 31 December 2026.
Activities in which the recipient community makes a significant contribution in terms of labour, materials or financing are particularly well-received. Particular attention is given to projects providing direct benefits to those most in need in the local community. Projects that might act as a catalyst for additional development of the community or as a model for similar developments elsewhere will also be welcomed.
The Australian Embassy will not fund the following:
- internal staff salaries;
- commercial ventures;
- cash grants or micro-credit schemes;
- purchase of major assets, e.g. vehicles or land;
- international travel, including study tours;
- major sporting tournaments or cultural displays; and/or
- routine administrative expenses including office rental and utility costs.
HOW TO APPLY
Expressions of interest for 2025-2026 DAP round must be submitted by 1 October 2025. To access the online expression of interest form (English only) please click here. The expression of interest form is to be completed by the applicant and then submitted to [email protected]. If you experience difficulties accessing the online application form, please contact us via email for assistance.
AFTER SUBMISSION OF YOUR APPLICATION
Only applicants who reach the short-listing phase will be contacted. Applicants who reach the short-listing phase will be asked to provide further information, including a fully costed project budget and two recent referees.
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
Successful applicants will be required to report on implementation and provide a financial acquittal in accordance with an individual DAP funding agreement.