Opportunity Information: Apply for AF DJ POL 22 01
The Djibouti Ambassador's Special Self-Help Fund (SSH) 2022 is a small-grants program run by the U.S. Department of State through the U.S. Mission to Djibouti. It is designed to support practical, community-driven projects that improve basic living conditions at the village or neighborhood level. The guiding idea is simple: the Embassy provides a modest, one-time boost to communities that are already organized, motivated, and ready to contribute their own time and resources to a project they genuinely need. The program is intentionally grassroots, focusing on tangible improvements that can be maintained locally after the grant ends.
For the 2022 cycle, applications were accepted from 18 April 2022 through 01 August 2022, with an approximate award decision date of 15 September 2022. Funding is provided as a grant, with an award ceiling of USD 10,000 per project and typical budgets falling between USD 5,000 and USD 10,000. The Embassy expected to make about four awards, but it also clearly stated it could choose not to fund any proposal, and that submitting an application does not guarantee selection. Projects must be completed within 12 months or less, and the Embassy support must be one-time only, meaning the community should not plan on follow-on Embassy funding to keep the project operating.
Eligibility centers on organized Djiboutian groups rather than individuals. Applicants must be citizens of Djibouti representing a civilian, religious, social, community development, special interest, disability, or advocacy group or organization, and the group must be registered with the proper authorities. A key expectation is that the applicant is not starting from scratch: the group should be organized, show a real local need, and ideally have a track record of successfully implementing community projects. The project itself must be feasible in the local socio-economic context and designed so the community can maintain and operate it after completion. Project managers are expected to demonstrate financial responsibility and the ability to account for funds, with practical indicators like having a bank account or established credit with vendors.
The program prioritizes high-impact projects with long-lived value that benefit as many people as possible. Strong community participation is not optional; it is required. Communities are expected to contribute meaningfully through cash or in-kind support such as labor, building materials (bricks, sand, gravel), land, buildings, seeds, transportation of materials, or other concrete inputs that directly help complete the project. The required local contribution is at least 10 percent of total project costs (cash or in-kind), and this community investment can be an important factor when comparing otherwise strong proposals. In addition, community leaders must sign a statement of interest, and the program encourages multiple signatures and letters of support that specifically reference the project by title. Leaders can include municipal officials, religious leaders, tribal or clan leaders, or other governing bodies with oversight in the project area.
The SSH program is strict about what it will and will not pay for. Funds may cover only items and technical assistance that are absolutely necessary to complete the project, and it does not cover administrative overhead. Commonly requested costs that are not allowed include administrative costs, salaries, supervision costs, project manager expenses, and travel costs to and from the Embassy. It also avoids non-permanent items and generally will not support expensive equipment or large-scale construction or agriculture. Costs incurred before an award are generally not reimbursed unless the grants officer pre-approves them in advance, and even then it is at the Embassy's sole discretion.
A long list of exclusions is meant to keep projects focused on community benefit and prevent the grant from turning into general operating support or asset purchases. The program does not fund vehicles or typical office equipment (including copiers and stereos), proposals with purely police, military, or cultural emphasis, and religious projects unless they genuinely serve the whole community regardless of affiliation. It will not support personal businesses, scholarships, donations, or honorariums, and it will not pay for pesticides or herbicides, labor and wages, operating costs, printing materials, fuel, or land purchases. It also will not fund renovation of facilities that are in disrepair due to neglect or lack of funds, office consumables like paper and folders, or contingency estimates. Importantly, SSH funding cannot be combined with money from other donors, international organizations, other U.S. government programs, or the applicant government; projects partially funded elsewhere are not eligible, and commingling of funds is prohibited. Projects focused on refugees or displaced persons are also excluded, since other U.S. programs are intended to address those needs. Finally, SSH funds cannot be used to purchase used equipment, luxury goods, or gambling equipment.
The opportunity highlights what successful proposals tend to have in common. Strong projects are initiated by the community itself and are guided by clear long-term goals, with a realistic plan for how the community will keep the project running after the grant ends. They are managed by a capable project manager who is a long-term resident of the community, and they often benefit from support by a neutral umbrella organization (like a local NGO or mission) that can provide guidance and help resolve disputes if needed. The Embassy also looks for strong coordination among the recipient group, community leaders, and local government representatives, and it favors approaches that use materials and supplies the community can maintain while avoiding environmental harm.
Examples of the kinds of projects the program is meant to support include basic water supply and sanitation efforts, such as improving safe water access through well drilling or spring capping, and expanding water infrastructure like pumps and distribution systems. It also includes basic sanitation projects that improve safe waste disposal to protect health and the environment. In the social services space, it supports initiatives that assist vulnerable and at-risk groups, including people with disabilities, orphans, children and youth affected by gender-based violence, ethnic minorities or other excluded groups, the elderly, and female-headed households. Potential activities for these groups could include classroom construction, school equipment, health centers, storehouses, income-generating activities, small local infrastructure, and educational support, as long as they remain within the program's cost limits and eligibility rules.
To apply, organizations had to submit a complete package by the 01 August 2022 deadline to the U.S. Self-Help Coordinator, either by post to the U.S. Embassy Djibouti (Lot 350-B Haramous, B.P. 185, Djibouti) or electronically by email to djiboutiselfhelp@state.gov. Required materials include a completed statement of interest, a comprehensive and detailed budget, a building plan with dimensions when relevant, copies of bank statements and/or invoices if available, a map of the project location, and any additional documentation about the organization or project. Late applications could be rolled into the next cycle or not considered at all.
Applications were evaluated on practical, results-oriented factors: whether the submission is complete and properly documented (including signatures, bank details, invoices, licenses, and proof of ownership when relevant), whether the project is sustainable without further outside investment, and whether it addresses a clear community need. Reviewers also examine the quality and reasonableness of the budget, the ability to finish within one year, the level of community support and participation, and the likely impact on the largest possible number of beneficiaries. Finally, the Embassy weighs the applicant group's contribution and capability, looking for evidence the group is committed and able to manage the grant responsibly.
If selected, recipients would be required to complete additional U.S. government grant forms and comply with award terms, including Standard Form 424 and other Embassy-required conditions. The program also expects public recognition of the partnership, such as press or radio mentions, photos, and plaques at project sites acknowledging the joint efforts of the Djiboutian and American people.Apply for AF DJ POL 22 01
- The Department of State, U.S. Mission to Djibouti in the regional development sector is offering a public funding opportunity titled "Djibouti- Ambassador’s Special Self Help Fund- 2022" and is now available to receive applicants.
- Interested and eligible applicants and submit their applications by referencing the CFDA number(s): 19.220.
- This funding opportunity was created on Jun 08, 2022.
- Applicants must submit their applications by Aug 01, 2022. (Agency may still review applications by suitable applicants for the remaining/unused allocated funding in 2026.)
- Each selected applicant is eligible to receive up to $10,000.00 in funding.
- The number of recipients for this funding is limited to 4 candidate(s).
- Eligible applicants include: Others (see text field entitled Additional Information on Eligibility for clarification).
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FAQs: Djibouti Ambassador's Special Self-Help Fund (SSH) 2022
What is the Djibouti Ambassador's Special Self-Help Fund (SSH) 2022?
The Ambassador's Special Self-Help Fund (SSH) 2022 is a small-grants program run by the U.S. Department of State through the U.S. Mission to Djibouti. It supports practical, community-driven projects that improve basic living conditions at the village or neighborhood level through a modest, one-time grant intended to help communities complete projects they are already motivated and organized to carry out.
What is the main purpose of the SSH program?
The purpose is to fund tangible, grassroots improvements that communities can maintain locally after the project ends. The Embassy provides a one-time boost, while the community contributes time, resources, and local ownership so the benefits last beyond the grant period.
Who runs and funds this grant opportunity?
The program is run by the U.S. Department of State through the U.S. Mission to Djibouti (the U.S. Embassy in Djibouti), and funding is provided as a grant.
What are the application dates for the 2022 cycle?
For the 2022 cycle, applications were accepted from 18 April 2022 through 01 August 2022.
When were award decisions expected for the 2022 cycle?
The approximate award decision date was 15 September 2022.
How much funding is available per project?
The award ceiling is USD 10,000 per project. Typical budgets fall between USD 5,000 and USD 10,000.
How many awards did the Embassy expect to make?
The Embassy expected to make about four awards.
Does submitting an application guarantee funding?
No. Submitting an application does not guarantee selection. The Embassy also stated it could choose not to fund any proposal.
How long can an SSH project last?
Projects must be completed within 12 months or less.
Is SSH funding renewable or available for follow-on support?
No. Embassy support is intended to be one-time only, and communities should not plan on follow-on Embassy funding to keep the project operating.
Who is eligible to apply?
Eligibility centers on organized Djiboutian groups rather than individuals. Applicants must be citizens of Djibouti representing a civilian, religious, social, community development, special interest, disability, or advocacy group or organization, and the group must be registered with the proper authorities.
Can individuals apply on their own?
No. The program is designed for organized groups and organizations, not individual applicants.
Does the applicant group need to be officially registered?
Yes. The group must be registered with the proper authorities.
What kinds of projects does SSH prioritize?
The program prioritizes high-impact projects with long-lived value that benefit as many people as possible, with strong (required) community participation and a clear plan for local maintenance after completion.
What are examples of eligible project types mentioned in the opportunity?
Examples include basic water supply and sanitation efforts (such as well drilling, spring capping, pumps, distribution systems, and safe waste disposal projects), and social services initiatives assisting vulnerable or at-risk groups (including people with disabilities, orphans, children and youth affected by gender-based violence, ethnic minorities or other excluded groups, the elderly, and female-headed households). Example activities may include classroom construction, school equipment, health centers, storehouses, income-generating activities, small local infrastructure, and educational support, as long as they remain within the program's cost limits and rules.
What does "community-driven" mean in this program?
It means the project should be initiated by the community, reflect a real local need, and be supported by meaningful local contributions (cash or in-kind). The community is expected to be organized and ready to contribute labor, materials, or other concrete inputs to complete the project.
Is community participation required?
Yes. Strong community participation is required, not optional.
What is the required community contribution?
The required local contribution is at least 10 percent of total project costs. This can be provided as cash or in-kind support (such as labor, building materials, land, buildings, seeds, or transportation of materials).
What types of in-kind contributions are acceptable?
Examples listed include labor; materials like bricks, sand, and gravel; land or buildings; seeds; transportation of materials; and other concrete inputs that directly help complete the project.
Can the size of the community contribution affect selection?
Yes. Community investment can be an important factor when comparing otherwise strong proposals.
Are signatures or letters of support required?
Yes. Community leaders must sign a statement of interest. The program encourages multiple signatures and letters of support that specifically reference the project by title.
Who can count as a "community leader" for support signatures?
Examples include municipal officials, religious leaders, tribal or clan leaders, or other governing bodies with oversight in the project area.
What does the program expect regarding sustainability after the grant ends?
The project must be designed so the community can maintain and operate it after completion, without further outside investment or follow-on Embassy funding.
Does the program expect applicants to have prior experience implementing projects?
It is expected that the group is organized and not starting from scratch. The opportunity notes that groups should ideally have a track record of successfully implementing community projects.
What financial capacity is expected from the project manager or organization?
Project managers are expected to demonstrate financial responsibility and the ability to account for funds. Practical indicators mentioned include having a bank account or established credit with vendors.
What can SSH grant funds be used to pay for?
Funds may cover only items and technical assistance that are absolutely necessary to complete the project. The program emphasizes that it does not cover administrative overhead and is focused on tangible, locally maintainable results.
What costs are explicitly not allowed (common disallowed costs)?
The opportunity lists several commonly requested costs that are not allowed, including administrative costs, salaries, supervision costs, project manager expenses, and travel costs to and from the Embassy.
Does SSH fund administrative overhead or general operating support?
No. The program does not cover administrative overhead and is designed to avoid turning the grant into general operating support.
Are vehicles or office equipment allowed purchases?
No. The program does not fund vehicles or typical office equipment (including copiers and stereos).
Does SSH support large-scale construction or expensive equipment?
Generally no. The program avoids non-permanent items and generally will not support expensive equipment or large-scale construction or agriculture.
Can SSH funds pay for labor, wages, or operating costs?
No. The exclusions list includes labor and wages, operating costs, fuel, and printing materials.
Can SSH funds be used for scholarships, donations, or honorariums?
No. The program will not support scholarships, donations, or honorariums.
Can SSH fund pesticides or herbicides?
No. The program will not pay for pesticides or herbicides.
Can SSH funds be used to buy land?
No. The program will not pay for land purchases.
Does SSH fund renovations of facilities that are in disrepair?
No. The program will not fund renovation of facilities that are in disrepair due to neglect or lack of funds.
Are office consumables allowed (paper, folders, etc.)?
No. The exclusions list includes office consumables like paper and folders.
Are contingency estimates allowed in the budget?
No. The program states it will not fund contingency estimates.
Are used equipment, luxury goods, or gambling equipment allowed?
No. SSH funds cannot be used to purchase used equipment, luxury goods, or gambling equipment.
Are projects with purely police, military, or cultural emphasis eligible?
No. The program does not fund proposals with purely police, military, or cultural emphasis.
Are religious projects eligible?
Religious projects are not funded unless they genuinely serve the whole community regardless of affiliation.
Are projects focused on refugees or displaced persons eligible?
No. Projects focused on refugees or displaced persons are excluded, because other U.S. programs are intended to address those needs.
Can this grant be combined with funding from other donors or programs?
No. SSH funding cannot be combined with money from other donors, international organizations, other U.S. government programs, or the applicant government. Projects partially funded elsewhere are not eligible, and commingling of funds is prohibited.
Are costs incurred before the award reimbursable?
Generally no. Costs incurred before an award are generally not reimbursed unless the grants officer pre-approves them in advance, and even then reimbursement is at the Embassy's sole discretion.
How should organizations submit an application?
Organizations had to submit a complete package by the 01 August 2022 deadline to the U.S. Self-Help Coordinator either by post to the U.S. Embassy Djibouti (Lot 350-B Haramous, B.P. 185, Djibouti) or electronically by email to djiboutiselfhelp@state.gov.
What documents are required in the application package?
Required materials include a completed statement of interest, a comprehensive and detailed budget, a building plan with dimensions when relevant, copies of bank statements and/or invoices if available, a map of the project location, and any additional documentation about the organization or project.
What happens if an application is submitted late?
Late applications could be rolled into the next cycle or not considered at all.
What are the main evaluation criteria used to review applications?
Applications were evaluated based on whether the submission is complete and properly documented (including signatures, bank details, invoices, licenses, and proof of ownership when relevant), whether the project is sustainable without further outside investment, and whether it addresses a clear community need. Reviewers also consider the reasonableness of the budget, the ability to finish within one year, the level of community support and participation, and likely impact on the largest possible number of beneficiaries. The Embassy also weighs the applicant group's contribution and capability to manage funds responsibly.
What does "complete and properly documented" mean in this opportunity?
It refers to submitting all required materials and supporting documents, including signatures, bank details, invoices, licenses, and proof of ownership when relevant, along with other required components like the map, budget, and building plan if applicable.
What characteristics do successful SSH proposals tend to share?
The opportunity notes that strong projects are initiated by the community and guided by clear long-term goals, with a realistic plan for continued operation after the grant ends. They are managed by a capable project manager who is a long-term resident of the community, and they often have support from a neutral umbrella organization (like a local NGO or mission) that can provide guidance and help resolve disputes. Strong coordination among the recipient group, community leaders, and local government representatives is also favored, along with using materials the community can maintain while avoiding environmental harm.
Is there any expectation about environmental considerations?
Yes. The Embassy favors approaches that avoid environmental harm and use materials and supplies the community can maintain.
If selected, are there additional forms or compliance requirements?
Yes. Selected recipients would be required to complete additional U.S. government grant forms and comply with award terms, including Standard Form 424 and other Embassy-required conditions.
Is public recognition of the project required?
Yes. The program expects public recognition of the partnership, such as press or radio mentions, photos, and plaques at project sites acknowledging the joint efforts of the Djiboutian and American people.
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