Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for grants?

Youth, which we define as individuals between the ages of 15 and 29, who currently reside in one of the following countries: Jordan, Kyrgyzstan, Lithuania, Moldova, Nepal, Serbia, or Uganda.

How much can I apply for?

You should apply for the amount that your project needs; we expect this will vary according to country and project.

May I buy equipment such as laptops and digital cameras with my grant funds?

We strongly discourage including the purchase of major equipment such as laptops in your grant applications.  If you need to purchase more affordable equipment such as a digital camera or a recording device, please be sure to state your case. And if you must have a laptop or other expensive equipment and are unable to borrow or find a local organization to purchase it for you, please be sure to detail what will be done with this equipment after the grant project has ended (e.g., donating it to a local youth organization).

I am having trouble finding the grant application on the online application system (OAS). What am I doing wrong?

1. Go to: https://oas.soros.org/oas/oas.asp?__action=1029.
2. Select "register an individual account" (remember, this is a grant project for individuals, not organizations).
3. Create a user name and password, and fill out all the necessary information.
4. Click the "applications" tab on the top of the page.
5. Scroll down until you find the "Youth Initiative/Youth Action Fund" and click on "apply."
6. Click "application form" on the left side of the page.

How long will I have to wait after my application is submitted?

You will receive instant notification once your online application is submitted. After that, you will receive notification within a few weeks that your application is complete and being reviewed, or you may be asked for additional information. It may take up to three months to receive a final notification as to whether or not your project will be funded.

How long will it take to receive the funds?

Depending on your banking situation and country, this process could take anywhere from two weeks to three months once receiving grant approval.

How many times may one individual apply?

We ask that you have only one application open at a time. You may apply again if your application is rejected with a different project.

What are my responsibilities upon completing the project?

You will be asked to submit a final report and update OSI on the progress of your project, which may include submitting photos and evaluation forms from participants.

Who should I contact if I have questions?

Contact Anita Karpati at youth@osi.hu with questions about your application.