The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and 140 representatives of Vietnamese non-governmental organizations (NGOs) gathered at a meeting in Hanoi July 24 to enhance cooperation via a new grant program. The USAID’s Development Grants Program (DGP) focuses on boosting sustainable grassroots development by supporting development initiatives driven by local institutions. The program is part of USAID’s efforts to provide more opportunities for various organizations to partner with it, whether through traditional grants, private sector alliances or innovative science partnerships. Next week, USAID will hold a similar meeting with many NGOs in Ho Chi Minh City. “We are thrilled to see this high level of interest among local NGOs in working directly with USAID to promote development in Vietnam through their innovative projects,” said USAID Mission Director Joakim Parker. He hoped that he will select the best ideas for possible funding during working sessions with these organizations in the coming weeks. USAID will grant to new partner organizations in the five fields of sustainable economic development of Ha Long Bay; climate change adaptation and youth; land tenure and property rights awareness, with an emphasis on gender; support of female farmers; and services for the disabled. Since 2000, the USAID has provided $595 million in aid for development and relief efforts in Vietnam. (U.S. Embassy Press Release July 24)
