PRESS RELEASE

 

For immediate release
Rabat, January 28, 2008

 

MEPI Local Grants Program: Supporting

Moroccan Civil Society

 

Open Call for New MEPI Proposals

The U.S. Embassy in Rabat is pleased to announce a call for proposals for the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) Local Grants program (formally known as Small Grants program) in Morocco.  Through the Local Grants program, the U.S. Government provides funding for Moroccan civil society — including non-governmental organizations, universities, professional organizations, and women's and youth groups.  The grants are intended to support projects that promote political participation, investment, transparency, encourage women’s empowerment and enhance access to quality education systems.  Interested parties should submit a proposal summary, describing the project, intended outcomes, estimated budget, and timeline.  Proposals are currently being accepted until all funds are allocated. Launched in 2002, MEPI has devoted more than $430 million to some 350 projects in 17 countries and territories in the region to help support the spread of democracy, the growth of economies, improvements in education, and the empowerment of women.

MEPI Local Grants in Morocco

MEPI Local Grants have proven to be innovative, timely, and effective responses to opportunities arising at the grassroots level.  This year MEPI will provide $3 million in funding to support the Local Grants program throughout countries in the Middle East and North Africa.  Individual grants usually range between $15,000-25,000 and last for one year. In Morocco, MEPI has worked with many local organizations including the Forum for Moroccan Women (Joussour) and the Aquarium Theater Company who organized theatrical performances to help explain the Moroccan family code; Association Action Jeunesse (2AJ) to increase political participation among Moroccan youth in the district of Cité ONCF in Casablanca and in 10 secondary schools;  and Association Tanmia.ma to mobilize youth groups through the development of “pod-casts” that help educate Moroccan society about important social issues facing the country. 

Contact Information

To find out more about the MEPI Local Grants program visit the U.S. Embassy’s website at http://www.usembassy.ma/mepi/mepi.htm.  To submit proposal ideas please contact Riad Berdayi at 037.66.82.71 or Berdayir@state.gov