Published on 17 March 2025

Contributions to non-governmental organisations

The SDC may support programmes and projects initiated by non-governmental organisations (NGOs) with contributions. The SDC distinguishes between core and earmarked contributions.

Earmarked contributions

Earmarked contributions are grants for specific projects or initiatives of Swiss or foreign NGOs. They support projects or programmes that are initiated, implemented and monitored by the NGOs themselves. Such contributions are made for activities that align with the SDC’s thematic and regional or country strategies.

Earmarked contributions are allocated by the SDC head office or by the representations at regional or country level.

Core contributions

Every four years, the SDC publicly invites Swiss NGOs to apply for core contributions in accordance with a defined procedure published on the SDC website. The eligibility process is coordinated with the federal government’s international cooperation strategy.

Core contributions are grants for international programmes of Swiss NGOs. These contributions allow Swiss NGOs to respond flexibly to changing situations.

The SDC guidelines for cooperation with Swiss NGOs are the reference framework for the SDC’s engagement with Swiss NGOs and provide the basis for effective and efficient use of funds to benefit the poorest and most vulnerable communities in developing countries and crisis areas. The guidelines define the award system for core contributions. These are awarded through a transparent and competitive process.

Core contributions can be awarded to four categories of NGOs:

  • Large Swiss NGOs;
  • Swiss NGO umbrella organisations;
  • Cantonal federations;
  • Swiss NGO alliances.

An NGO can only apply for a core contribution in one category. Large Swiss NGOs can apply directly for core contributions. Small NGOs can apply for core contributions as members of umbrella organisations, cantonal federations or NGO alliances.

Eligibility procedure and application process core contributions 2025-2028

The SDC guidelines describe the eligibility requirements and the application and approval process for core contributions. Core contributions are awarded to Swiss NGOs in three phases.

Documents

Contact

SDC / Swiss Non-Governmental Organisations
Eichenweg 5
3003 Bern