The U.S. Embassy in Georgia announces the opening of the Democracy Commission Small Grants Program Competition for 2014. The Commission will award grants of up to 24,000 U.S. Dollars (pending the availability of funds) to indigenous Georgian non-profit, non-governmental, media and educational organizations that support the following initiatives:

•Civic Engagement: increase involvement of civil society in decision-making processes; support public education and advocacy; support leadership education, empowerment and the rights of women, minorities, people with disabilities and other groups; promote democratic practices and principles.

•Youth Engagement: develop critical thinking and problem solving amongst youth (13-30 age range); promote health life-style in youth.

•Environmental Protection: public awareness campaigns, community-based projects to protect the environment.

•Independent Media Development for More Informed and Engaged Citizenry: diversification of programming; professional growth; media advocacy and transparency; promote ethics in journalism.

The deadline for submission of applications is Friday, February 28, 2014, at 1800hrs. For consultations, please register with Grant Program Coordinators Sofia Gegechkori, Tel: 2-277-601, Nino Gagua, Tel: 2-277-628.

Source: The U.S. Embassy in Georgia