The Ambassador’s Special Self-Help (SSH) program, funded by the U.S. Mission to South Africa, is a grass-roots grant assistance program that allows U.S. Ambassadors to support local requests for small-scale community-based development projects. The purpose of the SSH is to support communities through modest grants that will positively impact local communities. Preference will be given to organizations that demonstrate sustainability and a clear way to scale up activities. Proposals which complement U.S. Mission objectives will also receive preference. After the grant money is used, the project must be able to continue operating on its own or with help from the community.
DOWNLOAD: NOTICE OF FUNDING OPPORTUNITY (MSWord 136 KB)
Application Schedule
Application Period: July 21, 2020 – August 20, 2020
Selection Period: September 2020
Award Period: October 2020 – September 2021
Applicant & Project Criteria
- Applicants must be registered non-profit organizations (NPOs) in South
- Applicants must have a valid DUNS number (see http://www.dnb.com/duns-html).
- The project should help improve basic economic or social conditions at the local community or village
- The project should be high-impact and benefit the greatest number of people
- Substantial community participation in the activity is required. Contributions may include labor, materials, land, buildings, or money to ensure the success of the
- The project must be completed by September 30, 2021.
- Projects must be self-sustaining upon completion. The U.S. Embassy’s support for the project must be a one-time-only/one grant
- Projects must be within the community’s ability to maintain and
- Managers of a project should have evidence that they are financially responsible and will be able to account for funds sent to
- The requested grant amount must not exceed $20,000.