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CENTRAL AMERICAN REGIONAL SECURITY INITIATIVE (CARSI) GRANTS PROGRAM

The application for the FY 2022-2023 CARSI-ESF grant cycle is now closed. 

Who We Are
Grant Process
Documents and Forms
How to Apply
Additional Resources
CARSI ESF 2023 Q&A Session
Current Projects

Who we are

The Central America Regional Security Initiative Economic Support Fund (CARSI-ESF) supports civil society and good governance initiatives in Belize, Panama and Costa Rica. Since the initiation of the CARSI-ESF program in 2012, the U.S. Government has invested over U.S. $11.5 million to support civil society organizations with programming in Belize.

 

Previously, the CARSI-ESF program supported projects addressing the root causes of criminal activity through training and activities for at-risk youth and vulnerable populations. Currently, the program supports civil society organizations in their quest to create transparent, accountable governance and better service delivery. Learn more about our current and alumni grantees.

 

Grant Process

The U.S. Embassy in Belize issues a fixed-term Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) based on the availability of funding that is subject to a global congressional earmark for democracy, human rights and governance. The NOFO is published on www.grants.gov. Eligible organizations can submit a grant application via this website or by email.

  • Local or international non-profit/non-governmental organizations, academia, and public international organizations are eligible.
  • Project site must be in Belize.
  • Project proposals must address specified project objectives and required outcome indicators outlined in the NOFO.

All organizations interested in applying for grants (except individuals) must obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and register in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov), a process that is free of charge.

 

How to Apply

  • Visit www.grants.gov key word search ‘Belmopan’ then navigate to the “Related Documents” tab.
  • Download and review the FULL Notice of Funding Opportunity along with budget template.
  • Get a UEI and SAM registration; it is highly recommended that this is the first step in the process since this takes a few days for new applicants.
    • If you have a SAM registration, check that your status is updated.
    • If you are new to the process, get started by setting up an account and registering your organization;
  • When you register your organization a UEI will be assigned: Click Here
  • Review the list of required documents section IV of the NOFO.
  • The completed application package with attachments should be submitted online via www.grants.gov or by email to BelmopanCARSIESF@state.gov

CARSI ESF 2023 Q&A Session

https://www.facebook.com/USMissionBelize/videos/1264714267489214

Learn more about the application process and writing tips from a current CARSI grantee!

Current Projects

  • 2022 – Human Trafficking Institute
    • Strengthen government and CSO collaboration to improve delivery of critical services for trafficking survivors, increase government accountability and protect human rights for vulnerable populations. This will be achieved through training with frontline personnel and foster families as well as engagement and improved coordination across departments involve in TIP response.

 

  • 2022 – RET International
    • Strengthen the capacity of stakeholders within the Belize Transportation Industry to identify and report suspected cases of human trafficking through a comprehensive training program and contribute to governmental efforts in implementing the national anti-trafficking information, education, and communication operational plan by raising awareness on Human Trafficking.

 

  • 2022 – Accountability Lab
    • Identify new, collective ways to improve accountability, fight corruption and improve service delivery in Belize. This will be achieved by supporting the Government of Belize to create a competent civil service that provides accountable, non-partisan and efficient service delivery through an Integrity Innovation Lab and Accountability Incubator.
  • 2021 – Belize Heroes
    • Create a comprehensive pre-hospital emergency care system utilizing existing resources and create an infrastructure that engages community involvement for the Cayo district in partnership with the Belize National Fire Services.

 

  • 2021 – Humana People to People Belize
    • Establish permanent community service hubs and organize peer educators to increase accessibility and availability of services, information and opportunities for vulnerable populations in partnership with Department of Youth Services.

 

  • 2021 – The Trust for the Americas
    • Broaden knowledge and build capacities of youth to improve citizen participation through the creation of an Innovation lab to strengthen the entrepreneurial and social innovation ecosystem that supports development and sustainable solutions.