Meta Description: NGOs, NPOs, and community organisations in South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini can now apply for the 2026 German Embassy Micro-Projects Funding Scheme. Funding up to €25,000 available. Applications close 30 November 2025.
Call for Applications: 2026 German Micro-Projects Funding Scheme
Civil society organisations across South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini are invited to apply for the German Embassy’s 2026 Micro-Projects Funding Scheme — a small-grant initiative designed to support projects that improve living standards, promote inclusion, and foster sustainable community development.
Applications are open until 30 November 2025. Late submissions will not be considered.
All completed applications must be sent via email to:
- microprojects@pret.diplo.de (for most provinces)
- ez-s@kaps.diplo.de (for projects in the Northern, Eastern, and Western Cape)
What Is the Micro-Projects Funding Scheme?
The Micro-Projects Scheme forms part of Germany’s broader development cooperation framework, aimed at reducing poverty and improving living conditions in vulnerable and rural communities.
Each year, German Missions in Southern Africa allocate special funds to support short-term, small-scale projects with measurable social impact. These projects must be implemented and completed within the calendar year of funding approval — meaning that funds cannot be carried over into the next year.
Key Facts
- Maximum Grant Amount: €25,000 per project (approx. R500,000 depending on exchange rate)
- Application Deadline: 30 November 2025
- Eligible Countries: South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini
- Project Duration: Must be completed within 2026
- Funding Type: Once-off, non-recurring support
The scheme is designed to deliver quick, high-impact assistance in areas where no other public or private funding options are available.
Priority Sectors for 2026
The 2026 funding cycle prioritises projects that align with both Germany’s international development goals and local community needs. Particular attention will be given to initiatives addressing:
- Just Energy Transition – Projects that support renewable energy, sustainable energy access, or communities transitioning from fossil fuels.
- Local Economic Development – Projects promoting income-generating activities, especially in regions impacted by declining fossil fuel revenues.
- Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality – Projects advancing women’s rights, education, health, and economic participation.
- Anti-Discrimination Efforts – Initiatives combating discrimination on the basis of gender, sexual orientation, or physical ability.
Geographic Focus
Projects located in Mpumalanga and Limpopo will receive enhanced consideration due to their relevance in South Africa’s energy transition landscape.
Useful Links:
Organisations operating in Eastern, Northern, or Western Cape must apply directly to the Consulate General in Cape Town via: ez-s@kaps.diplo.de.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include registered, non-profit civil society organisations such as:
- Community-based organisations (CBOs)
- Non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
- Non-profit organisations (NPOs)
- Faith-based organisations
- Charitable foundations
The applying organisation must:
- Be legally registered in South Africa, Lesotho, or Eswatini.
- Be able to co-fund part of the project either financially or through labour (“self-help” contributions).
- Demonstrate the capacity to implement and manage the proposed project.
Projects led by individuals, businesses, or government agencies are not eligible for funding.
What Types of Projects Are Supported?
Eligible Project Examples
The German Micro-Project Fund prioritises sustainable, self-contained initiatives that can be implemented independently and produce tangible, lasting results.
Examples include:
- Solar energy installations and renewable energy solutions
- Community gardens and small-scale farming projects
- Women’s shelters and safe spaces for vulnerable children
- Renovation or construction of school classrooms
- Borehole drilling and water access improvement
- Skills-based income generation initiatives (e.g., sewing machines, carpentry tools, local manufacturing equipment)
Ineligible Project Types
The following projects will not be considered for funding:
- Vehicle purchases or private business start-ups
- Administrative, travel, or project management costs
- Stipends, food, medicine, or consumables
- Land acquisition or rental payments
- Ongoing operational or salary expenses
- Projects that have already commenced before approval
Each project must be a standalone intervention without future funding commitments from the German mission.
Financial Guidelines
- Funding Cap: €25,000 per project (approx. R500,000)
- Self-Contribution: The applicant must contribute financially or through labour.
- Personnel Costs: Should not exceed 25% of total project costs.
- Disbursement: Funds are typically paid in several smaller instalments. Lump-sum payments are approved only under special circumstances.
- Transparency: Funded organisations must agree to the publication of project data on official social media platforms.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted by email no later than 30 November 2025. Late applications will not be reviewed.
Email Addresses:
- For most provinces: microprojects@pret.diplo.de
- For Cape Regions: ez-s@kaps.diplo.de
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Official Application Form (signed and dated by two responsible persons)
- Include project title and amount of funds requested
- Provide full contact information (address, telephone, email)
- Detailed Project Description outlining:
- Objectives and expected outcomes
- Target beneficiaries
- Implementation timeline and activities
- Budget breakdown and self-help contribution
- Proof of Registration (e.g., NPO/NGO certificate)
- Supporting Documents such as maps, photos, or reference letters (if applicable)
Incomplete or unsigned applications will be automatically disqualified.
What Makes a Strong Application?
To increase your project’s chances of approval:
- Focus on tangible impact — show how your project benefits a defined community.
- Include clear timelines and realistic budgets.
- Highlight your organisation’s past successes or relevant experience.
- Demonstrate community involvement and local ownership.
- Show alignment with one or more of the priority focus areas (e.g., Just Energy Transition, women’s empowerment).
Why the Micro-Projects Scheme Matters
Micro-projects have become one of the most impactful grassroots funding tools in South Africa’s development ecosystem. These small grants enable local organisations to respond rapidly to community needs, especially where large-scale funding is unavailable.
By empowering NGOs and CBOs to implement self-sustaining initiatives, the scheme supports both social resilience and economic empowerment — particularly in underdeveloped and rural regions.
Germany’s partnership model encourages accountability, transparency, and collaboration between local communities and international development partners.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Micro-Projects Funding Scheme represents a rare opportunity for grassroots organisations to access direct international support for community-led development. With a focus on energy transition, gender equality, and local economic growth, the programme aligns with South Africa’s national transformation goals while addressing urgent social challenges.
If your organisation works to uplift marginalised communities and can implement a small but powerful project in 2026 — this call is for you.
Application Deadline: 30 November 2025
