Funding Opportunities for Non-Profits
CESRA Africa is pleased to announce a new funding opportunity designed specifically for small, African-registered, and accredited grassroots charities, as well as non-profit organizations engaged in exceptional development initiatives. Our Small Grant Programme aims to empower organizations that embrace the principle of fostering self-sufficiency—embodied in the adage, “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.”
History of the Grant
Inspired by Africa’s tradition of guiding individuals toward self-help, this grant program reflects the dedication of charitable organizations that emphasize prudent resource allocation. Every contribution is designed to directly support impactful programs.
Mission
At CESRA Africa, our foundation is built on the pillars of independence, transparency, and effectiveness in grantmaking. We are committed to:
- Supporting proven, replicable initiatives
- Encouraging innovative approaches
- Advocating self-reliance within charitable organizations
- Maintaining approachability, responsiveness, and professionalism in all interactions
General Guidelines
Our grant-making programs target small-scale and straightforward projects. The Small Grant Programme is open to charities operating anywhere in Africa.
Eligibility Criteria
- Who Can Apply:
- African-registered charities with an annual turnover of less than $30,000.
- Organizations must be active in projects that meet our specified funding priorities.
- Applicants must be members of CSR Accredited Charity, ensuring adherence to high accountability standards.
- Organizations must commit to annual auditing or an independent examination of their accounts.
- There is an expectation to showcase the funded project in CESRA’s publications and on our website.
- Income Threshold:
- This programme is specifically designed for charities with an income of less than $30,000. Organizations exceeding this threshold should explore alternative grant opportunities available from other agencies.
Funding Priorities
We prioritize projects that:
- Expand upon proven approaches and innovative solutions to persistent issues.
- Emphasize preventative measures, early intervention, and evidence-based strategies.
- Demonstrate value for money and a clear vision for both short-term impact and long-term sustainability.
Exclusions
The following items are not eligible for funding:
- General appeals
- Running costs
- Purchases of land or vehicles
- Individual initiatives
- Grant-making charities
- Loans or deficit cover
- Endowments
- Building projects
- Retrospective costs
Application Process
- Review Frequency:
- Applications are reviewed every two to three months.
- Re-application Policy:
- Charities that have previously received a grant or whose applications were unsuccessful should wait at least six months before reapplying.
- Applicants are discouraged from resubmitting the same project proposal if it was not approved.
Grant Priority Areas
Our programme is particularly focused on supporting smaller charities engaged in community and grassroots-level projects, including:
- Primary education
- Health and sanitation
- Environmental initiatives
- Clean drinking water projects
- Child and maternal care
- Poverty alleviation
- Orphanages and safe homes
- Efforts to combat African diseases
Project Countries
We welcome applications from charities operating in any country across the African continent.
Grant Amount
Grants under the Small Grant Programme range up to $5,000.
Funding Status and Future Considerations
CESRA Africa relies on the generous support of external donors and partners to fund our initiatives. At this time, our funding cycle is closed. However, we invite you to complete the attached form to be placed on our priority list for funding consideration once new project funds become available.
Apply now