The new website is available in Slovak and English, and can be viewed at: www.socia.sk.
Through information on already awarded grants and further funding possibilities under a multitude of grant schemes, the web site represents a useful tool for Slovak civil society organisations operating within the field of disadvantaged groups and social services.
The €1.5 million NGO fund was established under the EEA and Norway Grants to strengthen the capacity of Slovak NGOs offering support to children, youth and families at risk of social exclusion. The SOCIA foundation is currently reviewing the applications submitted in response to the fund`s second and final call for projects, which closed on 16 February.
39 NGOs applied for grants under the second open call, which made €800,000 in available for projects by Slovak civil society organisations. The applicants are local associations, organisations offering social services within larger geographical areas, and nationwide organisations.
The applications have already been checked administratively and will now be assessed by external professionals. The Board of Directors of the SOCIA Foundation will make the decisions on funding, and the first NGO's will be able to start their projects in May.
The NGO fund for social inclusion is one of 3 NGO funds established in Slovakia with support from the EEA and Norway Grants. The total amount earmarked to NGOs through the three block grants is €5 million. Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway are contributing with 85 percent and Slovakia 15 percent of the funds' costs.