Opportunity Information: Apply for AFREO 20 GR 002 AF 012320
The Ambassador's Special Self-Help Fund (ASSHF) Small Grants Program in Botswana is a U.S. Embassy Gaborone funding opportunity designed to support community-initiated, practical development projects that can be implemented quickly and sustained after the grant ends. The program focuses on small-scale activities that improve local economic and social conditions while also increasing public awareness of U.S. foreign assistance. A key idea behind ASSHF is flexibility: it allows the U.S. Ambassador to respond directly to local community needs with projects that produce visible, immediate impact and align with U.S. Mission priorities, while also encouraging communities to become more self-reliant over time.
Projects must be ready to launch, well planned, and able to continue functioning without ongoing outside support once completed. Before submitting an application, the proposing organization must secure approval from the appropriate local authority structures, such as a local development committee, tribal authority, and/or the local town or district council. Competitive applications are expected to show strong community roots and clear local backing, including coordination with relevant local government bodies. The program also requires the recipient to share responsibility for the project by contributing resources of its own, either through cash or in-kind support like labor, building materials, land, supplies, or other tangible inputs that help ensure completion and sustainability. Applicants must also demonstrate they have basic financial controls and monitoring procedures in place, and they must be prepared to submit ongoing reports; embassy staff may conduct site visits during implementation.
The program funds a range of community development objectives. Priority areas include community-based natural resource management (for example, strengthening community ownership and management of natural resources, preserving or expanding wildlife corridors, supporting sustainable community-based tourism, and promoting conservation). It also supports economic diversification and local income generation, such as grassroots entrepreneurship, small business creation, sustainable employment opportunities, and projects that measurably improve basic living or economic conditions. In addition, the fund can support social services that assist disadvantaged or at-risk groups, including people with disabilities, ethnic minorities, the elderly, and female-headed households. Youth and child development is another eligible focus, particularly projects that equip young people with practical tools and knowledge for healthier, safer lives and that create opportunities for youth, including pathways to employment.
Eligibility is limited to registered Non-Profit Organizations (NPOs). The embassy welcomes proposals from community-based organizations (CBOs), faith-based organizations (FBOs), and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that work directly with communities. Organizations that already have ongoing projects may still apply if they can clearly justify why additional resources are needed to expand the work in new directions rather than simply continuing existing activities without a new component.
The announcement also lists a detailed set of activities that are not eligible for funding. In general, the program will not support partisan political activities, surveillance equipment, duplication of other U.S. government programs, or anything that personally or politically benefits U.S. government employees or their close family members. It also excludes charitable handouts and donation-style activities, fundraising campaigns, lobbying, scientific research, projects aimed primarily at building the applicant organization itself, and duplicated efforts that do not add something new. The grant cannot be used for staff salaries or stipends, personal expenses (including school fees, uniforms, bursaries), alcohol, medicines, food parcels, or luxury and gambling-related goods. There are also restrictions tied to U.S. foreign assistance law, including prohibitions related to unsafe/toxic products, illegal drug trafficking, terrorism-related restrictions under Executive Order 13224, worker rights violations, and any other barred activities under the Foreign Assistance Act. Additional exclusions include support for police, prisons, or law enforcement activities; support for specific religious activities; abortion-related facilities and services; and typically the purchase of used equipment (with limited exceptions when equipment is simple and locally maintainable). The program also generally does not support private businesses, private creches, or public/government schools unless the project is implemented through a Parent-Teacher Association.
In terms of award structure, grants range from USD 1,000 to USD 25,000, with an expected total of roughly five to ten awards depending on the amounts approved (the source data lists an expected eight awards). The funding instrument is a grant, and projects are expected to be completed within twelve months or less, within a one-year period of performance. For this particular cycle, the anticipated project start date was October 1, 2020. Applications for FY2020 were accepted on a rolling basis up to the deadline, which was originally May 15, 2020 and later extended to July 3, 2020; submissions received after the closing date were not considered.
Applications could be submitted by email to SSHBotswana@state.gov, by mail to the U.S. Embassy (ATTN: Small Grants Coordinator, Ambassador's Special Self-Help Fund Program, P.O. Box 90, Gaborone), or hand-delivered to the U.S. Embassy in the Government Enclave in Gaborone to the attention of the Small Grants Coordinator. Questions about the application process were directed to the Small Grants Office via SSHBotswana@state.gov or by phone at (267) 373-2265. The opportunity is issued by the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Mission to Botswana, under Funding Opportunity Number AFREO 20 GR 002 AF 012320 and CFDA 19.700, with an award ceiling of USD 25,000.Apply for AFREO 20 GR 002 AF 012320
- The Department of State, U.S. Mission to Botswana in the community development sector is offering a public funding opportunity titled "Ambassador's Special Self-Help Fund Program Botswana" and is now available to receive applicants.
- Interested and eligible applicants and submit their applications by referencing the CFDA number(s): 19.700.
- This funding opportunity was created on Jun 03, 2020.
- Applicants must submit their applications by Jul 03, 2020. (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 $25,000.00 in funding.
- The number of recipients for this funding is limited to 8 candidate(s).
- Eligible applicants include: Others (see text field entitled Additional Information on Eligibility for clarification).
[Watch] Creating a grant proposal using the step-by-step wizard inside the applicant portal:
Ambassador's Special Self-Help Fund (ASSHF) Small Grants Program (Botswana) - FAQs
1) What is the Ambassador's Special Self-Help Fund (ASSHF) Small Grants Program in Botswana?
The Ambassador's Special Self-Help Fund (ASSHF) Small Grants Program is a U.S. Embassy Gaborone funding opportunity that supports community-initiated, practical development projects in Botswana. It is designed for small-scale activities that can be implemented quickly, show visible results, and continue operating after the grant ends.
2) What is the main purpose of ASSHF?
The program aims to improve local economic and social conditions while increasing public awareness of U.S. foreign assistance. It also emphasizes flexibility, allowing the U.S. Ambassador to respond directly to community needs with projects that deliver immediate impact and support long-term community self-reliance.
3) What kinds of projects are a good fit for ASSHF?
Projects should be ready to launch, well planned, and structured to be sustained without ongoing outside support once completed. Competitive proposals typically demonstrate strong community roots, clear local support, and coordination with relevant local government or authority structures.
4) What are the priority funding areas?
Priority areas include:
- Community-based natural resource management (e.g., strengthening community ownership/management of resources, preserving or expanding wildlife corridors, sustainable community-based tourism, and conservation).
- Economic diversification and local income generation (e.g., grassroots entrepreneurship, small business creation, sustainable employment opportunities, and measurable improvements to basic living or economic conditions).
- Social services for disadvantaged or at-risk groups (including people with disabilities, ethnic minorities, the elderly, and female-headed households).
- Youth and child development (projects that provide practical tools and knowledge for healthier, safer lives and create youth opportunities, including pathways to employment).
5) Who is eligible to apply?
Eligibility is limited to registered Non-Profit Organizations (NPOs). The embassy welcomes proposals from community-based organizations (CBOs), faith-based organizations (FBOs), and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that work directly with communities.
6) Can an organization with an ongoing project still apply?
Yes. Organizations with ongoing projects may apply if they can clearly justify why additional resources are needed to expand the work in new directions, rather than simply continuing existing activities without a new component.
7) What approvals are required before applying?
Before submitting an application, the proposing organization must secure approval from the appropriate local authority structures. Examples mentioned include a local development committee, tribal authority, and/or the local town or district council.
8) What does the program expect regarding community support and coordination?
Competitive applications are expected to show strong community roots and clear local backing, including coordination with relevant local government bodies.
9) Is cost-sharing or a local contribution required?
Yes. Recipients are required to share responsibility for the project by contributing their own resources, either as cash or in-kind support. Examples of in-kind contributions include labor, building materials, land, supplies, or other tangible inputs that support completion and sustainability.
10) What financial and reporting expectations apply to recipients?
Applicants must demonstrate basic financial controls and monitoring procedures. Recipients must be prepared to submit ongoing reports, and embassy staff may conduct site visits during implementation.
11) What is the award amount range?
Grants range from USD 1,000 to USD 25,000, with an award ceiling of USD 25,000.
12) How many awards are expected?
The opportunity indicated roughly five to ten awards depending on approved amounts, and the source data lists an expected eight awards.
13) What is the funding instrument?
The funding instrument is a grant.
14) How long can a project last under this program?
Projects are expected to be completed within twelve months or less, within a one-year period of performance.
15) What was the anticipated start date for this cycle?
For this particular cycle, the anticipated project start date was October 1, 2020.
16) When was the application deadline for FY2020?
FY2020 applications were accepted on a rolling basis up to the deadline. The deadline was originally May 15, 2020 and was later extended to July 3, 2020. Submissions received after the closing date were not considered.
17) How could applications be submitted?
Applications could be submitted in any of the following ways:
- Email: SSHBotswana@state.gov
- Mail: U.S. Embassy (ATTN: Small Grants Coordinator, Ambassador's Special Self-Help Fund Program, P.O. Box 90, Gaborone)
- Hand delivery: U.S. Embassy in the Government Enclave in Gaborone, to the attention of the Small Grants Coordinator
18) Who do applicants contact with questions?
Questions about the application process were directed to the Small Grants Office via SSHBotswana@state.gov or by phone at (267) 373-2265.
19) What activities are explicitly not eligible for funding?
The announcement lists multiple ineligible categories. In general, ASSHF will not support:
- Partisan political activities
- Surveillance equipment
- Duplication of other U.S. government programs
- Activities that personally or politically benefit U.S. government employees or their close family members
- Charitable handouts and donation-style activities
- Fundraising campaigns
- Lobbying
- Scientific research
- Projects aimed primarily at building the applicant organization itself
- Duplicated efforts that do not add something new
20) What kinds of expenses are not allowed under the grant?
The grant cannot be used for:
- Staff salaries or stipends
- Personal expenses (including school fees, uniforms, bursaries)
- Alcohol
- Medicines
- Food parcels
- Luxury and gambling-related goods
21) Are there legal or policy restrictions tied to U.S. foreign assistance?
Yes. The announcement notes restrictions under U.S. foreign assistance law, including prohibitions related to unsafe/toxic products, illegal drug trafficking, terrorism-related restrictions under Executive Order 13224, worker rights violations, and other barred activities under the Foreign Assistance Act.
22) Are law enforcement or security-related projects eligible?
No. Additional exclusions include support for police, prisons, or law enforcement activities.
23) Are religious activities eligible for funding?
No. The announcement excludes support for specific religious activities.
24) Are abortion-related services or facilities eligible?
No. The announcement excludes abortion-related facilities and services.
25) Can ASSHF funds be used to purchase used equipment?
Typically no. The program generally does not support the purchase of used equipment, with limited exceptions when the equipment is simple and locally maintainable.
26) Can private businesses apply or receive support?
The program generally does not support private businesses.
27) Are private creches eligible?
No. The program generally does not support private creches.
28) Are public or government schools eligible?
Public/government schools are generally not supported unless the project is implemented through a Parent-Teacher Association (PTA).
29) What is the issuing agency and identifying information for this opportunity?
This opportunity is issued by the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Mission to Botswana. It is listed under Funding Opportunity Number AFREO 20 GR 002 AF 012320 and CFDA 19.700.
Browse more opportunities from the same category: Community Development
Next opportunity: Invasive Species Control using the Incentivized Harvest Program for Managing Non-native Brown Trout within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Previous opportunity: DRL Supporting Sudan’s Democratic Transition
Applicant Portal:
Are you interested in learning about about how to apply for this government funding opportunity? You can create a free applicant account and receive instant access to our applicant portal that many business owners like you have benefited from.
Apply for AFREO 20 GR 002 AF 012320
Applicants also applied for:
Applicants who have applied for this opportunity (AFREO 20 GR 002 AF 012320) also looked into and applied for these:
| Funding Opportunity |
|---|
| U.S. Ambassador’s Special Self-Help FY 2020 Apply for DOS WHK SSH FY20 Funding Number: DOS WHK SSH FY20 Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to Namibia Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $18,000 |
| FY 2020 Citizenship and Assimilation Grant Program: Refugee and Asylee Assimilation Program Apply for DHS 20 CIS 010 003 Funding Number: DHS 20 CIS 010 003 Agency: Department of Homeland Security, Office of Procurement Operations - Grants Division Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $1,800,000 |
| FY 2020 Citizenship and Assimilation Grant Program; Citizenship and Instruction Application Services Apply for DHS 20 CIS 010 002 Funding Number: DHS 20 CIS 010 002 Agency: Department of Homeland Security, Office of Procurement Operations - Grants Division Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $8,200,000 |
| VETERANS CEMETERY GRANTS Apply for VA GRANTS NCA FY2021 1 Funding Number: VA GRANTS NCA FY2021 1 Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs, VA National Cemetery Administration Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $45,000,000 |
| Combating Discrimination and Social Injustice through Capacity Building and Policy Reform Apply for C NOFO 20 106 Funding Number: C NOFO 20 106 Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to India Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $30,000 |
| USAID’s Community Radios Assistance for Greater Empowerment of Mozambicans – USAID’s CORAGEM Apply for NOFO 72065620RFA00007 Funding Number: NOFO 72065620RFA00007 Agency: Agency for International Development, Mozambique USAID-Maputo Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $6,000,000 |
| FY 2019-FY 2020 Rural Capacity Building for Community Development and Affordable Housing Grants (RCB) Apply for FR 6400 N 08 Funding Number: FR 6400 N 08 Agency: US Department of Housing and Urban Development Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $3,250,000 |
| FY 2019 Ambassador's Special Self-Help Program Apply for DOS COG ECON SSH FY19 Funding Number: DOS COG ECON SSH FY19 Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to the Republic of the Congo Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $10,000 |
| Rural Placement Innovation Challenge (RPIC) Apply for RD RPIC 2020 Funding Number: RD RPIC 2020 Agency: Department of Agriculture, Business and Cooperative Programs Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $250,000 |
| Community-Led Monitoring (CLM) Apply for 0012020 Funding Number: 0012020 Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to Zimbabwe Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $25,000 |
| PEPFAR Small Grants Apply for DOS KGN PCO FY21 001 Funding Number: DOS KGN PCO FY21 001 Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to Jamaica Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $35,000 |
| Localworks LRO Assistance Activity in Bosnia-Herzegovina Apply for 72016821RFI001 Funding Number: 72016821RFI001 Agency: Agency for International Development, Bosnia USAID-Herzegovina Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $2,000,000 |
| PEPFAR Botswana - Community Led Monitoring (CLM) Program Apply for PEPFARGAB 21 CLMGR 001 AF 111320 Funding Number: PEPFARGAB 21 CLMGR 001 AF 111320 Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to Botswana Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $100,000 |
| PEPFAR Small Grants Program, Community-Led Monitoring 2021 Apply for DOS MSU PEPFARCLM FY21 Funding Number: DOS MSU PEPFARCLM FY21 Agency: Department of State, U. S. Mission to Lesotho Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $20,000 |
| Capacity Building and Coordination for Community-Led Monitoring 2021 Apply for DOS MSU PEPFARCLMCB FY21 Funding Number: DOS MSU PEPFARCLMCB FY21 Agency: Department of State, U. S. Mission to Lesotho Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $50,000 |
| U.S. Embassy Conakry, Annual Program Statement Apply for DOS CONAK FY21 01 2 Funding Number: DOS CONAK FY21 01 2 Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to Guinea Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $15,000 |
| Empowering Female Elected Leaders in Cameroon for Executive Leadership Apply for PAS CMR FY21 03 Funding Number: PAS CMR FY21 03 Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to Cameroon Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $15,000 |
| FY 2021 Ambassador’s Special Self-Help Program Apply for NGA POLECON GR FY21 001 121820 Funding Number: NGA POLECON GR FY21 001 121820 Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to Nigeria Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $15,000 |
| Hispaniola People to People (P2P) Conflict Mitigation (CM) Program Apply for 72051721RFA00001 Funding Number: 72051721RFA00001 Agency: Agency for International Development, Dominican Republic USAID-Santo Domingo Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $2,160,000 |
| USAID/Jordan-SAWT ACTIVITY Apply for RFI 278 21 DRG SAWT USAIDJORDAN Funding Number: RFI 278 21 DRG SAWT USAIDJORDAN Agency: Agency for International Development, Jordan USAID-Amman Category: Community Development Funding Amount: $35,000,000 |
Grant application guides and resources
It is always free to apply for government grants. However the process may be very complex depending on the funding opportunity you are applying for. Let us help you!
Apply for Grants
Inside Our Applicants Portal
Access Applicants Portal
- Grants Repository - Access current and historic funding opportunities with ease. Thousands of funding opportunities are published every week. We can help you sort through the database and find the eligible ones to apply for.
- Applicant Video Guides - The grant application process can be challenging to follow. We can help you with intuitive video guides to speed up the process and eliminate errors in submissions.
- Grant Proposal Wizard - We have developed a network of private funding organizations and investors across the United States. We can reach out and submit your proposal to these contacts to maximize your chances of getting the funding you need.
Premium leads for funding administrators, grant writers, and loan issuers
Thousands of people visit our website for their funding needs every day. When a user creates a grant proposal and files for submission, we pass the information on to funding administrators, grant writers, and government loan issuers.
If you manage government grant programs, provide grant writing services, or issue personal or government loans, we can help you reach your audience.
Learn More
Request more information:
Would you like to learn more about this funding opportunity, similar opportunities to "AFREO 20 GR 002 AF 012320", eligibility, application service, and/or application tips? Submit an inquiry below:
Don't forget to subscribe to our grant alerts mailing list to receive weekly alerts on new and updated grant funding opportunities like this one in your email.