Port Louis DAP FY 2024/2025 Open Round - EN

DAP funds are available on a not-for-profit basis to registered community groups, NGOs and other entities engaged in development activities in Mauritius (including Rodrigues), Comoros and Madagascar. We welcome projects with a regional dimension. Regional projects including Seychelles (currently not eligible for overseas development assistance) may be considered if there are other funding sources for Seychelles. 

What activities are eligible for DAP support?

DAP activities are aimed at achieving practical and tangible outcomes of high development impact. Projects that might act as a catalyst for additional development of the community or a model for similar developments elsewhere will be welcomed. Proposals that have a disability focus are encouraged.

The maximum amount for each grant is AUD60,000 (or the USD equivalent) and projects should be completed within one year from the date of entering into the grant agreement.

NOTE: Based on strong justifications, a project proposal may be exceptionally considered to be spread over a maximum of two years. Prior approval of the Australian High Commission/Embassy must be sought for any extension of timeframe and other variations on components.

Priority areas for 2024-25 are:

• Climate, renewable energy, environmental protection and/or promoting biodiversity
• Governance, education and/or economic empowerment
• Gender equality, social inclusion and the protection of minority and/or human rights
• Disaster and/or livelihoods resilience (including food, water and health security)

Applicants may apply for funding for development projects in other thematic areas.

The following activities are NOT eligible for funding under the DAP:

1. Australian or overseas study tours;
2. international travel (except in exceptional cases where it is a small component of overall budget);
3. grants programs run by other governments or organisations;
4. micro-credit schemes and or projects that involve the return of money or loans for cash;
5. permanent staff salaries or related fees;
6. commercial ventures;
7. purchase or rental of major assets including property or land;
8. purchase of vehicles (medical/emergency or farming vehicles may be considered in exceptional cases);
9. routine, recurring and/or running costs of the applying organisation including staff salaries; office rental and utility costs; spare parts; office supplies; routine maintenance and repairs (including of equipment such as photocopiers, computers, stoves, fridges etc.), and office or equipment insurance;
10. administrative costs not directly related to project implementation;
11. commemorative events, sporting tournaments or cultural displays, that do not have clear developmental outcomes; and
12. direct support to governments.

NOTE: Projects which include ineligible components can be considered only if the proposal clearly states how these components will be funded by other sources.

How do I apply?

This application form should be completed online via the SmartyGrants platform at: https://dap.smartygrants.com.au/PortLouisFY2024-2025-EN.

Your application should

• comply with guidelines above
• clearly articulate the positive change and impact that would occur following project implementation
• include an itemised and fully costed project budget
• include two referees – these can not be from the applicant organisation or from an organisation which stands to gain from the proposed project
• show with the help of a timeline or work plan that the project will be completed within one year.

Proposals should demonstrate a commitment on the part of beneficiaries to implement the activities and maintain them beyond the conclusion of the project.

Applications for this round must be received no later than 23:59 hours MUT (GMT+4) on Monday 14 October 2024.

All queries should be directed to the DAP Program Officer via email to DAP.PortLouis@dfat.gov.au.

Selection process

DAP projects are selected through a competitive process and in assessing applicants, the High Commission will consider the experience and track record of the applicant organisation, as well as the nature of the project. The High Commission reserves the right to request budget adjustments where necessary.

Preference is given to projects that:

• show tangible and practical development outcomes and have involved beneficiaries/local communities in identifying, designing and managing the project
• are innovative and creative
• comply with local laws and have the demonstrated support of local authorities, including traditional leaders, district councils/assemblies and local governments
• pay special attention to youth, disability and gender issues; and other disadvantaged groups
• are sustainable.

DAP projects are selected through a competitive process and in assessing applicants, the High Commission will consider the experience and track record of the applicant organisation, as well as the nature of the project. The High Commission reserves the right to request budget adjustments where necessary.

All successful DAP projects must be publicly identified as sponsored by the Australian Government. Where possible, a permanent signage should be created. Badging may include physical signage at project sites or imprints on sponsored hardware and print materials and should include the Australian aid identifier or its most suitable versions available at this link.

DAP recipients must facilitate visits from High Commission Staff to inspect the project and must submit all the acquittals with receipts within four (4) weeks of the completion of the project via the SmartyGrants platform.