Australian High Commission
Republic of Kenya

Direct Aid Program (DAP)

The Direct Aid Program (DAP) provides financial assistance to eligible groups or organisations undertaking suitable small-scale development projects.

In 2022-2023, The Australian High Commission will fund projects in the following focus areas:

  1. Combating climate change and supporting the environment
  2. Countering violent extremism
  3. Skills development and economic empowerment
  4. Support for vulnerable groups, notably women and girls, youth and people with disabilities

Projects must be located in one or more of the countries: Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, Tanzania or Uganda. Activities may run up to a maximum of two years. Further information on the Australian Government Direct Aid Program can be found here: http://dfat.gov.au/people-to-people/direct-aid-program/Pages/direct-aid-program.aspx. 

Projects must have defined, realistic objectives and clear outcomes. The Australian High Commission will award DAP grants at a minimum of AUD 25,000 and a maximum of AUD 60,000. Applications can be made in USD to an amount within this range when converted at the time of application. Projects must be self-sustaining and recurrent/ongoing costs will not be supported (e.g. salaries/rental/utility costs, micro credit schemes or any other project that involves return of money, etc.). Projects that demonstrate a high level of local involvement or partnership with other likeminded organisations (financially and/or in kind) are encouraged.

Organisations that received funding in both the 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 rounds are ineligible for funding in 2022-2023. 

How do you apply for the Direct Aid Program?

Interested organisations must submit an application via an electronic online form, powered by the SmartyGrants system.

Applications for the 2022-23 DAP Round are now open. Applications close at 5pm EAT (East Africa Time) on Monday 9 January 2023.

APPLY HERE

Applications should be complete proposals for prospective projects. To be eligible for funding, all proposals must include:

  • a detailed description of the project and its prospective benefits and costs (for which a DAP Grant will provide only up to AUD 60,000)
  • an accurate financial breakdown of costs involved (invoices should be attached to substantiate costings)
  • a Risk Management Strategy that (if relevant) includes assessment of risks to children
  • a timeframe for implementing the project of no more than two years, beginning before July 2023.

Applications will only be accepted online through SmartyGrants. Applications in hard copy or email will not be processed.

Please also note that:

  • incomplete applications will not be considered
  • only applications addressing one or more of the four Focus Areas above will be considered
  • projects approved for funding must adhere to DAP policy guidelines set out by the Australian High Commission for financial management, fraud mitigation and branding (as are set out in the grant agreement letter)
  • any unutilised funds must be returned to the Australian Government.