UNDP Moldova launches a competition of preselection of 35 communities that will be the beneficiaries of the second phase of “Migration and Local Development” project, financed by Government of Switzerland, and implemented during 2019-2022. From 35 preselected communities, 25 will benefit from US$ 60,000 co-financing each for implementing economic development projects, IPN reports, quoting a press release of UNDP Moldova.

“Three out of ten Moldovan citizens are abroad. This phenomenon deprives localities of their contribution. That’s why in its second phase, our project is focused on economic development initiatives, with Diaspora’s involvement,” said Oxana Maciuca, project manager of the UNDP “Migration and Local Development” project.

The Government of Switzerland via UNDP aims to boost Diaspora’s involvement in local development. That’s why the creation and development of active Hometown Associations at local level will be sustained via two grant programs: “Hometown Associations Accelerator” and “Hometown Associations Incubator”. These two programs will be running annually during the project’s implementation period.

For the “Hometown Associations Accelerator” program, registered associations can apply, with demonstrated one-year activity. At least 15 migrants’ initiatives will be supported yearly, with US$ 10,000 each, based on a 1 + 1 formula (the grant’s value has to be equal to migrants’ contribution), within the available budget.

The ”Hometown Associations Incubator” will support initiative groups and newly created associations or those that are in the process of creation. Each year, up to 20 grants of US$ 1,000 each will be offered for the implementation of small local initiatives.

The deadline for application for all three calls is April 25, 5pm.

During 2015-2018, UNDP contributed to the development of 38 hometown association. “We are confident that these associations, once initiated and empowered, could implement projects that would generate income for citizens,” said Oxana Maciuca.