National BOOST Grant Program 2025: Know Who Can Apply, Duration, Benefits & More

In an inspiring move to strengthen civil society across the Western Balkans, the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) has officially opened applications for its highly anticipated National BOOST Program. This initiative is more than just a funding opportunity - it's a mission to empower communities, elevate youth voices, and foster democratic, sustainable development throughout the region.

At its heart, the BOOST Program is about building bridges between civil society and decision-makers. The goal? To encourage collaborative efforts that reflect shared European values like peace, democracy, and inclusion. Whether through local governments, universities, or community groups, the program aims to create a strong, interconnected network of changemakers dedicated to transforming the region from the ground up.

What's On Offer?

Each selected project will receive a grant of up to €30,000, with €24,000 (80%) funded by BOOST. The remaining €6,000 (20%) is expected to be co-financed by the applicants, encouraging shared responsibility and commitment to the success of every initiative.

But what kind of projects does BOOST support?

Thematic Pillars of the Program

The BOOST Program focuses on three strategic pillars:

• Youth and Entrepreneurship
• Projects in this category aim to give young people - especially women - greater access to entrepreneurship opportunities. It's about fostering leadership, encouraging participation in public life, and developing social enterprises that can bring lasting change.

Rural Development & Environmental Protection

• With climate change and rural decline posing major challenges, BOOST encourages initiatives that uplift rural youth, promote eco-consciousness, and revitalize underserved areas through sustainable solutions.

Cultural Heritage & Community Development

• Culture is a powerful tool for unity and growth. This pillar emphasizes the protection and celebration of cultural heritage while using it as a foundation for economic development and stronger local identities.

Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria

Only non-profit civil society organizations (CSOs) with at least 24 months of experience in relevant fields can apply. Political, faith-based, and religious organizations are not eligible. Moreover, applicants must be based in one of the six Western Balkan countries: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, or Serbia.

Key Dates

The selected projects will begin implementation in October 2025 and must be completed within 12 months, with an additional 30 days allocated for reporting.

What's the Bigger Picture?

Beyond individual success stories, the BOOST Program is about strengthening the entire civil society ecosystem. It aims to develop the capacity of local organizations to act independently, influence policy, and work hand-in-hand with public institutions. By putting youth and women at the center of this vision, BOOST ensures that the next generation has both a voice and a seat at the table.