Sammy
The In‑Country Micro Projects Scheme (ICMPS), administered by Irish Aid and other diplomatic missions, offers vital educational scholarships, study grants, and research fellowships to local NGOs, academic institutions, and community-based organizations in countries like the Philippines.
In 2025, this scheme is prioritizing human rights, education, disability inclusion, and community development with grants up to €10,000.
This article explores the scheme’s purpose, eligibility, application timeline, and how to maximize your organization’s chances of securing support.
What Is the ICMPS?
The In‑Country Micro Projects Scheme is a small‑grants program that enables local partners to implement targeted initiatives aligned with Ireland’s international development priorities. These include:
- Access to education and skills training
- Disability inclusion in schools and research
- Food security and anti‑hunger projects
- Strengthening community voices on education policy
With grants covering up to 70% of project costs (max €10,000), local contributions (min 30%) encourage community ownership and sustainability .
Who Can Apply?
ICMPS applications are accepted from
- Registered NGOs and cooperatives
- Community‑based organizations with legal status
- Academic/research institutions partnering with local NGOs
Projects must be based within the country, with preference for initiatives empowering disadvantaged communities and inclusive educational models.
2025 Application Timeline & Award Process
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Call for Proposals Announced | June 9, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | July 4, 2025 |
| Awards Notified | Late August 2025 |
| Projects Commence | 1st Quarter 2026 |
Proposals must be submitted via the Irish Embassy or mission portal (e.g., Ireland.ie) by the mid‑year deadline.
Eligible Project Types
Examples of grant‑eligible educational projects include
- Scholarships or fellowships for teachers and researchers
- Curriculum development for inclusive education
- Training programs for learners with disabilities
- Community workshops on education policy advocacy
- Baseline research and action studies in education and social inclusion
Projects should demonstrate local impact, scalability, and policy relevance.
Funding and Co‑Financing
- Grant cap: €10,000 per project (max 70% of total costs)
- Minimum local contribution: 30% cash or in‑kind
- Eligible expenses include: stipends, materials, training, monitoring, evaluation
Funds are disbursed in phases, typically with an initial disbursement at project start and a final payment upon completion and reporting.
Application Tips
To improve your chances of success
- Align proposals with Ireland’s development priorities (education, disability, gender)
- Show strong local participation and sustainability
- Make your project measurable with clear outcomes
- Include a monitoring and evaluation section
- Ensure budgets are detailed and realistic (with minimum 30% local input)
Real‑World Impact
Past ICMPS grants have
- Provided school scholarships to underprivileged children
- Funded teacher training for inclusive classroom practices
- Supported community‑led research that influenced educational policy
These small grants often seed larger, long-term programs with proven community benefits.
Post‑Award Requirements
After being selected
- Sign a grant agreement with delivering mission
- Submit progress reports mid‑project
- Provide a final report, financial statement, and impact evaluation
- Participate in learning events and share best practices
The ICMPS 2025 offers an excellent opportunity for local organizations to initiate or strengthen educational and research-based interventions.
With funding up to €10,000 and community-driven focus, this scheme empowers groups to deliver lasting impact.
Prepare your proposal, secure local buy-in, and apply before July 4, 2025 to take advantage of this valuable resource.
FAQs
Q1: Can individuals apply or only organizations?
Only registered organizations (NGOs, academic institutions, cooperatives) can apply; not individuals.
Q2: Is local funding contribution mandatory?
Yes—projects must demonstrate at least 30% local contribution (cash or in-kind).
Q3: What type of reporting is required?
Grantees must submit a progress report mid-term and a final report including financial details, outcomes, and lessons learned.