**Georgia’s State Grants Management Agency: A New Era of Funding for Civil Initiatives?**
In a move that has sparked controversy, Georgia’s State Grants Management Agency has issued its first call for grant applications. The agency, established by the Georgian Dream government in April, aims to support civic initiatives through state funding.
However, critics argue that the ruling party is seeking to fund loyal organizations, known as government-organized non-governmental organizations (GONGOs), while cutting western funding to independent civil society groups. This move has been seen as a way for the Georgian Dream party to consolidate its power and suppress opposition voices.
The agency is headed by Tamar Zodelava, a former regional project manager with the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ). She has also worked with the Council of Europe and the Eastern Partnership Regional Fund. The agency’s guidelines specify that eligible applicants are non-commercial legal entities registered in Georgia whose founding documents reflect work in areas of state or public significance.
The grant proposals must align with one or more of 12 priority areas, including democratic institutions, good governance, human rights, foreign policy, economic development, education, and environmental protection. Applicants may request up to GEL 100,000 (approximately USD 37,000) per project, with a minimum project duration of three months from the signing of the grant agreement.
The application period runs from July 21 to August 11. Proposals will be evaluated by the Agency’s council, with decisions made by majority vote. This move comes as the Georgian Dream party targets western funding for non-governmental organizations through repressive laws and legislative moves.
**A Shift in Funding Priorities?**
This new state grant call has been met with skepticism by many in Georgia’s civil society community. Critics argue that the agency is a tool for the Georgian Dream party to fund loyal groups, while suppressing independent voices. The move has been seen as a way to consolidate power and control over civil society organizations.
The legislation crackdown on non-governmental organizations has been followed by further moves against media outlets and watchdogs through public agencies. This has raised concerns about the erosion of democratic values and the rule of law in Georgia.
**What’s Next?**
As the application period runs from July 21 to August 11, it remains to be seen how this new state grant call will play out. Will independent civil society organizations be able to access funding through this channel, or will they continue to face challenges and repression?
One thing is certain: Georgia’s civil society community will be closely watching the developments of this new state grant program.
