The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) announced the re-launch of its Small Grants Programme. The announcement was made during a ceremony, which attended by representatives from over 100 non-governmental and private organisations.
Following the announcement, a workshop was held in which participants learned about the programme, including the mechanism for awarding grants, and a revised application process that is easier to use for new applicants, according to press release issued here by US Consulate Peshawar on Monday. The release said that at the event, USAID Mission Director for Pakistan, Gregory Gottlieb remarked, "With 5.3 million US dollars now available for development activities in FATA and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
We are looking to fund unique and innovative initiatives that focus on access to basic education and increase positive civic participation." It further stated that the Small Grants Programme provides grants ranging from $50,000 to $250,000 for education or civic participation projects lasting up to two years. This program is one component of the Small Grants and Ambassador's Fund Program (SGAFP) which was launched in 2010 by USAID to help Pakistani communities implement their initiatives.
The US Consul General in Peshawar, Jon Danilowicz, was also in attendance and remarked, "The US government is committed to developing FATA and KP. We have made substantial investments in reconstruction, improving governance and bringing economic opportunities. We look forward to this region becoming increasingly secure, productive and prosperous."
Since October 2009, the United States has provided nearly $1 billion in development and humanitarian assistance to FATA. US assistance helps build infrastructure, improve education and health, spur economic development, and strengthen the Pakistani government's ability to provide basic services to residents.
Since its launch, SGAFP has provided $22 million through 167 projects, which include establishing temporary and permanent schools, training and mentoring new teachers, preserving languages and dialects and empowering women. These projects are improving the quality of life for 450,000 households across 80 districts in Pakistan. The Small Grants Program now welcomes new applications from both KP and the FATA. Further information can be found at www.sg afp.org.pk.
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