We receive over 3,000 proposals a year and we are only able to award about 200 grants annually. All applications are assessed on their own merits and we use the same selection criteria for every applicant, which is as follows:
- Closeness of fit with OSISA’s programme and priorities;
- Significance of the need to be addressed;
- Potential to achieve significant and enduring results;
- Capacity of the applicant to accomplish its goals and objectives; and
- Appropriateness of the budget.
What we do not support
- Initiatives with footprints outside the ten OSISA operating countries
- Relief programs
- Retrospective requests
- Capital equipment, unless in exceptional cases
- Promotion of a particular religious or spiritual philosophy
- Arts and Culture
- Political organisations
Given the terrain in which we work, we can sometimes provide funding in a much shorter period, but we address matters on a case–by-case basis. The OSISA Board meets quarterly, at which time they consider the funding recommendations of the staff. There is no guarantee that an application sent in now will fall within the cap by the time it reaches the Reviewing Committee.
During the review, representatives of the Foundation will research the proposal through telephone enquiries, site visits, and meetings with agency of staff, board members, volunteers, and clients as necessary. On occasion, outside experts may be asked to help review a particular proposal. Foundation staff prepares written proposal summaries and recommendation to the OSISA Board.
