Call for Applications: Butrint Community Grants First Call for Butrint Community Grants An opportunity to develop local ideas and initiatives. The Albanian-American Development Foundation (AADF) and the Butrint Management Foundation (BMF) are launching the first call for applications under the Butrint Community Grants Scheme. This scheme aims to support individuals, local businesses, and nonprofit organizations seeking to develop ideas, investments, and activities connected to Butrint National Park and the surrounding communities. Application period: July 16–October 15, 2026 Application deadline: October 15, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. Funding: Grants of up to USD 20,000 The Community at the Heart of Butrint’s Future In cooperation with the Ministry of Culture, AADF established the Butrint Management Foundation as the implementing foundation for an integrated management model for Butrint. This model aims to preserve and develop the cultural and natural heritage of Butrint National Park while also placing the communities that live and work nearby at its center. Residents, artisans, farmers, tour guides, tourism operators, businesses, and local organizations play an important role in the development of the area. Through their products, services, experiences, and activities, they contribute to a more active local economy and a more sustainable destination. The Community Grants Scheme was created to support exactly this. What Does the Grants Scheme Aim to Achieve? The scheme aims to support ideas and initiatives that contribute to the following areas of development: Economic Cultural Social Tourism-related The scheme focuses on communities located near Butrint National Park. The support is intended to help applicants develop their activities, improve existing products and services, or create new initiatives that benefit the area and the community. Who Can Apply? Individuals Individuals with a specific idea or activity connected to the area and to the fields supported by the scheme may apply. Individuals may submit an application without being registered as a business in advance. However, if selected as a grant recipient, they will be required to register at least as a small business after being notified of their selection. Local Businesses and Registered Entities Businesses and registered entities that currently carry out, or intend to develop, an activity connected to the territory, local communities, and the development of the Butrint area may apply. Nonprofit Organizations Nonprofit organizations that carry out activities within Butrint National Park or support its surrounding communities may apply. Each category of applicant must download and complete the relevant application package. Areas Covered by the Call The call is open to applicants located within the territories of: Vrinë, Shëndëlli, Xarrë, and Mursi, as well as other rural areas bordering Butrint National Park that have been identified as priorities for economic, social, and tourism development under the Integrated Management Plan. A map of these areas is attached to this call. What Types of Ideas Are Supported? Supported activities may relate to: Handicrafts Agriculture Livestock farming Local products Accommodation Traditional gastronomy Tourist guiding Culture Services Community initiatives What Does the Funding Cover? Under this Grants Scheme, funding may be provided for the purchase of machinery, equipment, and business furniture; improvements to premises; signage; landscaping; cultural, promotional, training, and representation activities; and, in certain cases, support for the rental of business premises. The scheme requires co-financing: the applicant contributes part of the project costs, while the grant supports the remaining portion. How Much Funding Is Available? AADF supports applicants with grants of up to USD 20,000, depending on the type of investment, the project budget, and the application category. An applicant may receive only one grant under the calls issued through this scheme. How to Apply Download the application package for the relevant category: Individual, Business, or Nonprofit Organization. Complete the application form. Prepare the project cost estimate or budget. Attach the required documents. Submit the complete application file to BMF before the deadline. Note: During the application period, BMF will organize open information sessions in which applicants may participate. Call Timeline July 16–October 15, 2026 Applications are open and will be accepted by BMF. October 15–October 30, 2026 BMF will carry out an administrative review of the application files. Clarifications will be requested only when necessary. October 30–November 7, 2026 The Evaluation Committee will review the applications, make its decisions, and communicate the results. November 10–25, 2026 Agreements will be signed with the selected grant recipients, and the disbursement of funds will begin in accordance with the relevant agreements. Do You Have Questions? BMF Is Here for the Community BMF has a dedicated specialist available to answer applicants’ questions and provide information in the field. Questions may be submitted through the BMF email address or dedicated WhatsApp number announced for the Grants Scheme. Prepare your idea, download the appropriate application package, and submit your application before the deadline. Application Deadline October 15, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. Apply Now!