Ministry of Defence to offer €500,000 in grants to support interesting defence and security-related projects

Under the MOD Grant Scheme, the Ministry of Defence is, once again, to offer grants to support interesting projects framed around Slovakia's defence and security narrative. Over the past three years, the MOD has increased the total value of grants awarded from €100,000 up to €500,000 today. Among those eligible for grants are civic associations, foundations, interest groupings, non-investment funds, non-profit organisations, and municipalities. Grant applications close on 31 March 2023.

The main goal of the MOD Grant Scheme is to support the work of the NGO sector, academia, and local governments, while putting their specialist knowledge, expertise and experience to good use by raising public awareness about the priorities of the SVK MOD and the Armed Forces, as well as fostering public debate on MOD-related issues.

Encouraging all grant seekers, Defence Minister Jaroslav Naď said: “For us, local or targeted projects are of great benefit – whether it be events for young people, various educational workshops, precious publications, care for rare historical monuments or other activities that may emerge and be delivered often only as a result of this form of support.”

There is legislation in place that allows the MOD to give out grants to help with educational workshops, forces-themed events, military themed activities for young people, and sporting, cultural and social engagement activities aimed at educating Slovak citizens on patriotism; keeping the public updated on NATO and EU affairs; training Slovak citizens for the defence of Slovakia; promoting the SVK Armed Forces; catering for the cultural, spiritual and social needs of regular soldiers, reservists and veterans; and supporting top level and high performing athletes and sporting talents.

The MOD has published a list of recommended themes, albeit non-binding, along with the MOD's priorities. These may well help the applicants define the purpose of their project. All relevant information and individual priorities are available via Dotácie. You can also submit an enquiry regarding the call for grant submissions, the grant terms and conditions, and the grant award process by sending an email to dotacie@mod.gov.sk.