Issued by: ZIP Institute (Lead Implementing Organization)
Funded by: European Union under the CfP EuropAid/180645/DD/ACT/MK
Project Title: Empowering Vulnerable Communities: Catalysing Climate Action through Climate Assemblies
Implementing Period: January 2025 – January 2027
Total Number of Sub-Grants Available: 5
Maximum Amount per Sub-Grant: EUR 5,500
Application Deadline: September 5, 2025.
Implementation Period for Sub-Grantees: 12 months
About the Call
ZIP Institute invites civil society organizations (CSOs) in North Macedonia to apply for sub-grants to organize Climate Assemblies in five municipalities. These Assemblies aim to involve energy-vulnerable citizens in shaping local climate and energy policy recommendations, strengthening participatory democracy and supporting the country’s EU integration process.
The sub-grants will support grassroots CSOs in the formulation, implementation, and monitoring of local Climate Assemblies, including the recruitment of citizens, facilitation of deliberative processes, development of recommendations, and engagement with municipal institutions.
Eligibility Criteria
- Be legally registered as a non-profit civil society organization in North Macedonia.
- Have been operational for at least two years at the time of application.
- Have successfully implemented at least two previous projects, preferably in areas related to climate, energy, environment, social inclusion, minority or gender rights.
- Demonstrate adequate human resource capacity, including expertise in relevant policy areas.
- Show the ability to establish a Memorandum of Collaboration with a local municipality.
- Provide all required documentation for due diligence and transparency, including registration certificate, bank account details, and organizational statute.
- Show experience working with vulnerable groups, such as low-income households, ethnic minorities, women, youth, or people with disabilities.
- Commit to full participation in project training sessions, visibility, and financial accountability procedures.
- Submit a financial report with supporting documents at the end of the grant period.
What the Sub-Grant Covers
- Community outreach and citizen recruitment
- Venue rental, logistics, and facilitation of Assembly sessions
- Staff time and coordination (max. 20% of the budget)
- Development and dissemination of recommendations
- Engagement with municipal authorities
- Participation in project monitoring, training, and reporting activities
Note: All costs must follow EU visibility, procurement, and financial accountability standards.
How to Apply
Interested CSOs must submit:
- Completed Application Form
- Budget
- Organizational profile with description of previous relevant projects and CVs of key staff
- A Letter of Intent jointly signed by the applicant CSO and the municipality of their choice, confirming their mutual commitment to co-organize a Climate Assembly.
- Proof of legal registration and financial records (last 2 years)
Applications must be submitted by email to: info@zipinstitute.mk
Email Subject Line: Sub-Grant Application – Climate Assembly – [Name of CSO]
Deadline for submission: 05 September, 2025.
Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an interview or clarification session. The final selection will ensure diversity of geographic location, community needs, and thematic strengths.
Contact
For questions, please contact:
Ms. Ivana Simjanoska, ivana@zipinstitute.mk
