Questions and Answers (Q&A)
The Grant Application Guidelines for ALIPH’s Call for Projects for Cultural Heritage Protection in Central Asia, funded by the European Union, are available on ALIPH website.
This Q&A aims to respond to the most frequently asked questions from applicants.
Online application
→ How can I apply for a grant?
Applications must be submitted online through the ALIPH platform: https://aliph.smartsimple.ie/s_Login.jsp
A user guide is available on the platform. Once you log in to the platform, you can contact us using the “Notes” button. All questions relating to grant applications should be submitted through this platform. If you have technical difficulties accessing the platform, please contact us at: grants@aliph-foundation.org.
→ Is there a PDF version of the application form?
No, applications must be completed and submitted directly through the online platform. You can download a reference pdf file for your own records at any stage of the application process.
Language
→ In which language should the application be submitted?
The application must be submitted in English. An executive summary may be provided in French.
Internet-based translation tools can be used to translate the application from local languages into English.
→ Can I provide supporting documents in other languages?
Supporting documents should be in English or French. Documents in other languages must include informal English translations or must be accompanied by an Executive Summary in English.
Who can apply?
→ Who is eligible to apply?
Only registered organizations may apply. Individuals are not eligible.
→ Can newly established organizations apply?
Yes, as long as they demonstrate relevant expertise and capacity.
→ Are international or foreign organizations eligible?
Yes, but they must have legal authorization to operate in the country of implementation.
→ Are private companies eligible?
Yes.
→ Is passing due diligence a requirement for eligibility?
Yes. ALIPH conducts a due diligence to ensure that applicants have suitable systems and processes to manage grant funds appropriately in terms of flow of funds and cash management, accounting and financial management, procurement and asset management, and standard policies and procedures
Budget and Funding
→ What is the budget range?
Most projects that will be selected under this Call are small grants: USD 5,000–30,000
A VERY limited number of medium-sized grants (USD 75,000–200,000) will be selected These typically involve multi-country initiatives or more complex restoration works at built heritage sites.
→ Can administrative (indirect / overhead) costs be included?
Yes, administrative (indirect) costs must not exceed 10% of the total budget. Administrative or overhead costs may include general management, utilities, and office expenses necessary for the project. They are eligible but must not exceed 10% of the total budget. Direct implementation salaries are not considered overheads.
→ Are personnel costs part of the 10% administrative (indirect /overhead) costs?
Normally not. Personnel costs are usually direct costs.
Project Duration
→ What is the eligible duration for projects?
Projects under this Call for Projects must be completed by the end of December 2026. The expected duration is 3 to 12 months.
Scope of Projects
→ Are intangible heritage projects eligible?
Yes. Projects to safeguard and transmit intangible cultural heritage are eligible.
→ Can projects include both tangible and intangible elements?
Yes. Integrated projects are welcome.
→ Can educational materials or media projects be funded?
Yes, if they support heritage preservation and public awareness.
→ Can feasibility studies be funded?
Yes, if they directly support project implementation.
→ Can projects related to contemporary arts be funded?
Yes.
Evaluation and Selection
→ How are projects selected?
Projects are evaluated for relevance, feasibility, impact, sustainability, and alignment with ALIPH's mission. The criteria can be found in the application guidelines.
→ Are partnerships across countries encouraged?
Yes, multi-country cooperation is welcome, but not mandatory. For multi-country initiative, all benefiting countries should be among the 5 Central Asian countries that are eligible to this Call.
Multi-country initiatives between a Central Asian country and a non-Central Asian country are not eligible.
→ Can one organization submit more than one proposal?
Yes. Multiple submissions are possible. Each project should be submitted separately. Usually only one proposal per organization can be selected during a specific Call for Projects.
Disbursement and Reporting
→ How is the grant disbursed?
Typically, installments are based on project milestones and on the financial capacity of the grantee organization (which is assessed during the due diligence process by the ALIPH administration and finance team)
Please note that the final installment typically happens AFTER the completion of the activities.
→ What are the reporting requirements?
Progress and final reports, including financial and narrative components, with documentation and photos as proof of implementation Financial supporting documents should be kept and will be requested by ALIPH.