Embassy of the United States Accra, Ghana

The Self-Help Program aims to give U.S. Embassy support directly to community groups that are helping themselves. The Self-Help Program provides assistance to small community projects.

What projects are eligible for funding? 

• The project must be initiated by the community and should benefit the community by increasing income or improving living conditions. If the project is designed to generate income, it must be truly community-based and not a for-profit enterprise or sole proprietorship.
• The project should be sustainable and not require continued support after the one-time contribution from the Self-Help Program. 
• The community must make substantial contributions to the project in money or in kind (labor, sand, stone, building materials, etc.).
• All projects must be completed in one year.

How much are the grants?

The maximum grant is $US12, 000, converted to cedis at the prevailing exchange rate. However, very few projects are funded at that amount. Projects typically funded are small, in the range of US$4,000 to $US10, 000.

How are projects approved?

The Self-Help Projects Committee meets once a year to decide on funding. The committee aims to have a variety of projects and a wide geographical distribution. The committee currently funds about 10 percent of the applications it receives. Project funding is generally decided in April of each year.

How does an organization apply?

Application forms are available through the coordinator in the Self-Help Program Office at the U.S. Embassy. They may be requested by mail or in person. You may also pick the form online (PDF 105KB). The deadline for submission of applications for every fiscal year is December 31 of every ensuing year. Applications can be submitted at any time before that date to the Coordinator or by Post.    

What does not qualify for a Self-Help grant?

The Self-Help Program cannot fund political, religious, military, or recreational activities. Funds cannot be used for administrative costs, transportation, training, scholarships, consumable items, vehicles, or to finance repairs. Funds are not provided to government agencies.

Contact

Self-Help Coordinator
U.S. Embassy, No. 24 Forth Circular Rd.
Cantonments, Accra.
P.O. Box 194, Accra
Telephone: 233-30-2741000/2741389 Ext. 1473