Applications for the Direct Aid Program (DAP) in 2026-27 are now open. Applications close at 5pm on Friday 16 October.
What is the Direct Aid Program (DAP)?
The Direct Aid Program (DAP) is a small grants program administered by the Australian High Commission in Kiribati. The program aims to support projects with a strong development focus which are designed to benefit the whole community. We encourage projects in the areas of community and/or rural development, education, gender equality, health and disability, sport, youth, human rights, the environment, economic empowerment, agriculture and ad hoc humanitarian relief. The DAP grant can give a maximum of $20,000 for each project.
Who can apply?
- Communities, Clubs, Villages, Churches and faith-based organisations
- Non-Government Organisations (NGOs)
Some examples of projects we fund under DAP include:
- Construction of toilets
- Purchase of water tanks / water purifiers
- Purchase of sewing machines for training purposes
- Purchase of sports equipment for a community or sport organisation
Projects in support of early childhood education
What kind of projects can’t be supported by DAP?
Beyond applicant eligibility criteria, we will not support projects that include the following ineligible items in their budget:
- Sponsorship of major sporting tournaments or cultural displays that do not have a clear developmental benefit.
- Staff salaries, or funding for trainers.
- Projects that give grants or micro-credit schemes or projects that involve the return of money, or commercial ventures
- Purchase of major assets, for example trucks
- Major construction, including building maneabas
- International travel, including Australian or overseas study tours
- Routine, recurring running costs and administrative expenses including office rental and utility costs, spare parts, routine maintenance
Local government and councils are not eligible to apply.
Expectations for accountability, transparency and reporting
We require a high degree of transparency and accountability in all projects.
Should your project be successful, you will be required to:
- sign a contract specifying the terms and conditions of the grant
- undertake communication with the Australian High Commission, Tarawa regarding the project’s progress
- allow and facilitate a visit by Australian High Commission representatives to the project site.
How can I apply?
All applications should be submitted online through Smarty Grants, an online grant system, at this link: https://dap.smartygrants.com.au/Kiribati2026
You can access Smarty Grants from any device with internet.
Where can I get help?
Click here to view the DAP 2026-2027 Factsheet / Kabwarabwaran te DAP 2026-27
Click here to view the Guide on how to apply for DAP using Smarty Grants / Kairam nakon te booma inanon SmartyGrant
Click here to view the DAP Frequently Asked Questions / Titiraki aika Okioki iaon te DAP
For more information email [email protected] or phone 74021184 (during working hours).