Call for applications for 2027 project grants

Since 2001, the Consulate General has promoted collaboration between Sweden and Türkiye through project grants. The support is guided by the Strategy for Sweden’s reform cooperation with Eastern Europe, the Western Balkans and Türkiye 2026–2030 and the reform agenda Development assistance for a new era – freedom, empowerment and sustainable growth (2023). Our aim is to support civil society across Türkiye, serve as a resource for partners, and provide a platform for public dialogue.

Objective

The overall objective of our support is:

Strengthened democratic development, with increased respect for human rights and freedoms and the rule of law, and gender equality.

Within this objective, we particularly welcome project proposals focusing on:

• Freedom of expression and media freedom, including efforts to counter disinformation

• Young people's democratic participation

• Human rights, access to justice and use of legal mechanisms

• Combatting gender-based violence and discrimination

• Synergies between trade and development cooperation

We encourage projects that foster collaboration across institutions and sectors, include activities in multiple regions of Türkiye, and involve co‑funding with other donors.

Applicants are expected to integrate a gender equality perspective into their organisational structure, working methods, and project activities. Anti‑corruption measures must be an integral part of organisational practice.

Application process

1) Submission of project ideas (concept notes)

Organisations are invited to submit project ideas using this template by 24 July 2025. Applications must be submitted electronically to: istanbul.sektionen@gov.se

The Consulate General will review all submissions and contact organisations selected to proceed.

2) Full application

Selected organisations will be invited to submit a complete application. Detailed instructions and required documents will be provided at that stage.

3) Interviews

Shortlisted organisations will be invited for interviews.

Eligibility and Guidelines

• Eligible applicants include officially registered CSOs, foundations, associations, think tanks, trade unions, and universities.
• Applications from individuals for‑profit companies are not eligible.
• Projects related to the Syrian crisis fall under Sweden’s Syria crisis strategy and are not encompassed by this call.
• Projects focusing on humanitarian or psychosocial support fall outside the scope of this call.

To be considered, applicants must complete the “Concept note – call for project applications” template (available here). The concept note must be submitted in English, and the total requested budget must be stated in Turkish Lira.

For questions, please contact: istanbul.sektionen@gov.se