The Emirates Foundation for Philanthropy today announced that it will offer substantial funding to civil society organisations involved in UAE educational and social development issues.
Through a new grants competition, the Foundation is now seeking proposals from UAE-licensed civil society organisations to expand an existing project, launch and run a new project, or to strengthen their organisations.
Khuloud Al Nuwais, Director of projects at Emirates Foundation for Philanthropy said "Interested organisations can apply for up to Dh 500,000, spread over two years.
The funding can be used to cover the costs of training, improving services, institutional strengthening and other areas that contribute to the effectiveness and sustainability of the organisation.
Dr Mona Al Bahar, Head of the Emirates Foundation’s Social Development Programme, added: "Priority will be given to civil society organisations working in rural areas. Applicants should submit a covering letter to us with the organisation’s contact details and describing its involvement in educational and / or social projects in the UAE." The letter should be accompanied by a two-page proposal summary, to include the title of the project, its objective, the proposed activities, the organisational capacity, a budget outline, and potential funding partners.
The closing date for applications is November 8, 2009. Proposals and any enquiries should be sent to social@emiratesfoundation.ae. Short-listed candidates will be contacted and asked to complete a detailed Emirates Foundation grant application form.
Dr Al Bahar concluded: "The Emirates Foundation is committed to supporting social development projects in the UAE and recognises the valuable contribution that civil society organisations make in this field. The aim of this project is to strengthen their role and make them more effective."
