EZ Small Projects Fund

The EZ Small Projects Fund offers non-profit organizations in Germany the opportunity to support small and very small development policy projects of partner organizations in the Global South with grants of up to 50,000 euros. Associations, corporations, foundations, and trust foundations based nationwide can submit applications on an ongoing basis and thus promote local initiatives aimed at sustainable improvements in the living conditions of disadvantaged communities. The focus is on participatory planning approaches that strengthen self-help and create long-term perspectives. Through close cooperation with project partners according to the DAC country list, projects are implemented that advance both agricultural development and rural transformation. The funding areas include development cooperation as well as agriculture and rural development, thereby particularly benefiting regional cultural and ecological initiatives.

Eligible for funding are exclusively non-profit entities based in Germany that wish to cover construction and investment costs, fees, personnel costs, or material expenses. A prerequisite for approval is a formal entity verification (Part A), confirming non-profit status and legal framework conditions, followed by a detailed project application (Part B) including a financing plan (Part C). After positive evaluation, funds can be drawn as needed and transferred promptly to project partners on site. A share of own funds usually must be demonstrated to ensure co-financing. The entire application process is accompanied by comprehensive guidelines providing detailed explanations on funding requirements, entity verification, project application submission, project implementation, and accounting. Applications can be submitted at any time, as there are no fixed deadlines. The EZ Small Projects Fund places great emphasis on transparency and partnership-based implementation, establishing itself as a proven instrument in development cooperation.