The dRPC’s NGO Support Initiative Grant Nigeria – Apply Now

Application deadline: May 30, 2025

The Development Research and Projects Centre (dRPC) has unveiled the NGO Support Initiative (NSI), a strategic funding program aimed at revitalizing Nigerian civil society organizations (CSOs) affected by recent international donor withdrawals. With financial backing from the Ford Foundation’s Office for West Africa, the NSI offers grants of up to ₦5 million to eligible NGOs across Nigeria.

Bridging the Funding Gap for Nigerian NGOs

The NSI was conceived in response to the abrupt cessation of foreign aid, notably from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which had been a cornerstone for numerous Nigerian NGOs. This sudden funding vacuum compelled many organizations to suspend or scale back critical programs. Recognizing the urgency, dRPC, leveraging over three decades of experience in supporting local CSOs, initiated the NSI to provide immediate financial relief and ensure the continuity of essential services.

Grant Details and Implementation Timeline

The NSI provides rapid-response grants of up to ₦5 million, targeting projects that can be executed within a three-month timeframe. The initiative emphasizes swift deployment to address pressing community needs. The first application round commenced on May 1, 2025, and concludes on May 30, 2025. A subsequent round will open on July 1, 2025, closing on August 1, 2025. All funded projects must be completed, with final reports submitted, by November 30, 2025.

Eligibility and Application Criteria

To qualify for the NSI grant, organizations must meet the following criteria:

• Registration and Experience: Be a registered NGO with a minimum of five years of active programming.
• Geographical Scope: Operate within any Local Government Area (LGA) or state in Nigeria
• Program Interruption Evidence: Provide documentation of program disruptions due to funding cuts, such as canceled calls for proposals or suspended donor platforms.
• Leadership Disclosure: Offer full transparency regarding the organization’s leadership and management structures.
• Project Duration: Design projects that can be fully implemented within a three-month period.

Applications must be submitted via email to ngosupportinitiative@drpcngr.org. Inquiries can be directed to info@drpcngr.org.Recruit Update

Capacity Building and Long-Term Impact

Beyond financial support, the NSI incorporates a comprehensive capacity-building component. Grantees are required to participate in a four-module virtual training program covering:

• Project Management: Enhancing organizational efficiency and effectiveness.
• Evidence-Informed Advocacy: Developing strategies grounded in research and data.
• Financial Accountability and Compliance: Ensuring transparent and responsible financial practices.
• Social Behavior Change Communication: Crafting messages that drive positive societal shifts.

High-performing organizations may be recommended to social impact investors for further support, fostering sustainability and scalability.

Strategic Focus Areas

The NSI prioritizes projects that address critical issues, including:

• Gender-Based Violence Prevention: Initiatives aimed at reducing and preventing violence against women and girls.
• Women’s Economic Empowerment: Programs that enhance women’s access to economic resources and opportunities.
• Safe Schools for Girls: Efforts to create secure and supportive educational environments.
• Gender Equality and Social Justice: Activities promoting equitable treatment and opportunities for all genders.

These focus areas align with dRPC’s longstanding commitment to fostering inclusive development and social justice in Nigeria.

The dRPC’s NGO Support Initiative stands as a timely and strategic intervention, addressing the funding challenges faced by Nigerian NGOs. By providing both financial assistance and capacity-building resources, the NSI aims to sustain and amplify the impact of civil society organizations dedicated to advancing gender equality, social justice, and community development

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE