By SANUSI OYELEKAN

The British High Commission in Abuja has invited local organisations to apply for funds that would enable them promote projects that support development initiatives in Nigeria.

Non-governmental organisations, civil society organisations and development partners have been encouraged to apply.

The bidding round for prospective projects for the financial year 2015-16 is now open.

“We are pleased to invite NGO’s/Civil Society and development partners to submit project proposals for this funding stream. We are looking for innovative and creative interventions that will make a difference,” the commission said last Thursday.

CEOAfrica reporter gathered that the commission’s contribution towards each project would be limited to approximately £20, 000 and all projects need to be completed by March 2016.

The commission in Abuja manages a bilateral programme budget (BPB) on behalf of the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO).

The programme funds small, targeted projects which support UK priorities.

For the ongoing submissions, priority will be given to projects strategically aligned to the abolition of the death penalty; discrimination against women, gender equality; promotion and protection of the freedom of expression; promoting accountability, transparency and anti- corruption in businesses; freedom of religion, education and youth development, and supporting the links between British and Nigerian cultural activities.

“Project bids that seek to hold one-off seminars, conferences, and study tours are unlikely to secure funding,” the commission said.

The deadline for submission of project bids is June 26.