When SGP started its activities in Lithuania there was not enough information on the new programme. Many NGOs and Community Based Organizations (CBOs) did not have a sufficient capacity and experiences in the development of project proposals and therefore the applications did not meet SGP requirements.
The goal of the project was to disseminate information on SGP, its goals, strategy, priorities and possibilities for participation in the programme as wide as possible, and to prepare CBOs and NGOs for becoming the stakeholders of the programme.
To disseminate information on the programme, articles were prepared and published in the regional and national press; different NGO networks and publications were involved: 655 representatives of NGOs, CBOs, municipalities, regional parks and other organizations participated in five regional information seminars. Later, 109 people took part in intensive two-day training on the preparation of SGP application in five regional workshops. NGO partners provided active support in organizing the events.
An NGO capacity building model on project development was created, which includes the overall assistance and consultations in identifying the projects? ideas, planning the projects? activities, formulating projects? proposals. SGP also mediates in attracting co-financing and even in solving problems that arise during the implementation of projects.
A wide range of Lithuanian NGOs have become familiar with the programme and the possibilities to participate in it. The number of applications for SGP grants has increased and their quality has improved significantly.