The first call for proposals under the NGO Fund Bulgaria within the EEA FM was closed on October 15th, 2008.

Below is a brief statistical information:

Total number of projects submitted: 321

Number of projects submitted under Priority area 1: Protection of the environment and promotion of sustainable development: 93
Total budget - 6 527 245,83 EUR
Requested grant amount - 5 150 336,39 EUR

Number of projects submitted under Priority area 2: Provision and development of social services, such as in health and childcare: 120
Total budget - 8 382 078,54 EUR
Requested grant amount - 7 326 557,14 EUR

Number of projects submitted under Priority area 3: Development of civil society and protection of human rights: 108
Total budget - 6 357 760,49 EUR
Requested grant amount - 5 639 821,14 EUR

The 321 applications received in response to this summer's call for proposals are now being appraised by fund manager Foundation for Local Government Reform. The majority of the submitted projects involve partnerships between several Bulgarian NGOs.

It is expected that the approved for funding projects will be announced in January 2009.