The Direct Aid Program is a small grants program funded by Australia’s Official Development Assistance budget. It provides funding for locally led projects that deliver practical and tangible development outcomes in eligible countries, including Zimbabwe.
The Australian Embassy in Zimbabwe administers the Direct Aid Program, supporting community groups and NGOs in Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Republic of Congo. The program focuses on high-impact, grass-roots development projects.
Program Benefits
- Funding for community and grass-roots development projects
- Direct, immediate, tangible and high-impact outcomes for beneficiary communities
- Small grants program funded from Australia’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) budget
Program Eligibility Criteria
- Available on a not-for-profit basis
- Open to community groups, non-government organisations and other organisations
- Must be engaging in development activities in Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Democratic Republic of the Congo or Republic of Congo
- Applications must be compatible with the DAP Guidelines
How to Apply for Direct Aid Program?
- Submit applications online via the SmartyGrants link during the application window
- Application window: 9:00am on 22 June 2026 to 12:00am (midnight) on 13 July 2026, Central African Time
- Do not email or post unsolicited applications outside the DAP application platform
- Refer to the DAP Guidelines for comprehensive information on the application process and eligibility
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Direct Aid Program. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the Direct Aid Program?
The Direct Aid Program (DAP) is a small grants program funded from Australia’s Official Development Assistance budget. It provides funding for locally led projects that deliver practical and tangible development outcomes in ODA-eligible countries.
Who can apply for the Direct Aid Program?
Funding is available on a not-for-profit basis to community groups, non-government organisations and other organisations engaging in development activities in Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Democratic Republic of the Congo and Republic of Congo.
What is the deadline for the Direct Aid Program 2026?
The application window is from 9:00am on 22 June 2026 to 12:00am (midnight) on 13 July 2026, Central African Time. Applications cannot be submitted before or after this period.
How do I apply for the Direct Aid Program?
Applications must be submitted online via the SmartyGrants link provided on the official website. The link is only accessible during the application window. Do not email or post unsolicited applications.
What types of projects are funded by the Direct Aid Program?
The DAP funds community and grass-roots development projects that provide direct, immediate, tangible and high-impact outcomes for beneficiary communities. Projects must align with Australia’s development priorities.
Is the Direct Aid Program funded?
Yes, the Direct Aid Program is a funded small grants program. It provides funding for eligible projects from Australia’s Official Development Assistance budget.
Can individuals apply for the Direct Aid Program?
No, the DAP is available on a not-for-profit basis to community groups, non-government organisations and other organisations. Individual applicants are not eligible.
Where can I find the DAP Guidelines?
The DAP Guidelines are available on the official Australian Embassy Zimbabwe website. Links to the English and French versions are provided on the DAP page.
What happens if my application is incompatible with the DAP Guidelines?
Applications that are incompatible with the DAP Guidelines will not be considered for funding. It is essential to review the guidelines carefully before applying.
How competitive is the Direct Aid Program?
The DAP application process is highly competitive. The Embassy is only able to fund a small portion of applications received each year.
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