Communication Labs: Frequently Asked Questions

Check the answers to the most frequent questions received from the potential applicants of the Communication Labs for CSOs from Armenia & Georgia.

Question 1: Do I need to have a fully developed campaign idea to apply?

No, you can apply with an initial idea. The Labs will help you refine and develop your concept throughout the programme.

Question 2: What are the specific topics that can be proposed for the communication campaigns?

The Communication Labs are designed to address a wide range of topics relevant to civil society organisations (CSOs) in Armenia and Georgia. These may include democracy, human rights, gender equality, environmental protection, education, healthcare, and more. The Labs encourage CSOs to propose communication campaigns that align with their mandate, expertise and the needs of their communities. Please see the Guidelines for Applicants to learn more about eligible and non-eligible ideas.

Question 3: If this Call is for organisations, who is the Lead Applicant in your application form?

In the context of the Communication Labs, the Lead Applicant is an individual who represents a registered civil society organisation (CSO) and takes a leadership role in the application and subsequent participation in the Communication Labs. This individual will play a pivotal role in shaping and driving the proposed communication campaign idea throughout the Labs’ various stages.

Question 4: I am a civil society activist but not a member of any organisation. Can I apply with the campaign idea?

Unfortunately, this Call specifically targets officially registered civil society organisations (CSOs). However, if you have a compelling campaign idea, we encourage you to collaborate with a partner CSO. Each CSO is required to form a team of three individuals for participation. You can find comprehensive eligibility criteria in the Guidelines for Applicants for further details.

Question 5: I represent a commercial organisation (not a CSO) but I have an idea of a communication campaign. Can I apply?

Question 6: Can we produce campaign materials in our local language (Armenian or Georgian)?

Yes, you are encouraged to produce campaign materials primarily in your local language, either Armenian or Georgian, to effectively reach and engage your target audiences. We understand the importance of conveying your messages in a language that resonates with your community. While local language materials are preferred, please ensure that at least one member of your team (the Lead Applicant) can communicate in English, as English language proficiency is required for the application process and communication with the organisers.

Question 7: Do I need to attach any documents to my application?

At the application stage you will need to upload only the CV of the Lead Applicant at the end of the application form.

Question 8: The application form is quite long, can I get the template of the form in advance?

Yes, the Application Form has 40 questions some of which will require more significant input. We strongly advise applicants to check the PDF version of the Application Form (available here) before starting the online application process. The Application is likely to take several hours, and you may require input from your colleagues. Please make sure you do not leave the submission to the last day before the deadline.

Question 9: How participants are selected?

CSOs will be selected based on their experience, capacity, and commitment, as well the relevance, societal impact, and innovative approaches of the prosed communication campaign ideas. The detailed steps and criteria for assessment and evaluation of applications are presented in the Guidelines for Applicants. Up to 20 CSOs (10 from Armenia, 10 from Georgia) will be selected for Phase 1 of the Communication Labs.

Question 10: What’s the role of mentors in the Labs?

Mentors provide guidance and support to participating teams, helping them refine their campaign ideas, develop strategies, and more. They play a crucial role in the capacity-building process.

Question 11: Can I apply as a mentor?

Yes, the call for mentors is open simultaneously with the call for CSOs. You can apply as a mentor if you have the relevant expertise. Please check the call for mentors here

Question 12: How long is the programme, and what are the key dates?

The 1^st Phase of the Communication Labs runs from November 2023 to February 2024, with meetings, mentoring and capacity building process. The 2^nd phase (for those organisations selected after the 1^st Phase) will run from March to October 2024. Please check the tentative timeline on the website.

Question 13: What is the expected time commitment for participants in the Labs?

The time commitment varies throughout the programme but is manageable for CSOs with other ongoing activities. Throughout the programme, participants should anticipate participating in a combination of offline and online activities, including: 2 in-person events (a 2-day Kick-off Session and a 1-day Final Event, held in either Yerevan or Tbilisi, depending on your location) and at least 5 webinars. Between November 2023 – January 2024, participants should allocate approximately 15 hours for mentoring sessions with their assigned mentors. Please check the tentative timeline on the website

Question 14: Is there any financial contribution required from participating CSOs?

No, there is no financial contribution required from participating CSOs. The program is fully funded by the European Union through its ‘Eastern Partnership Civil Society Facility’ project, including the capacity-building sessions, mentorship, and potential funding for campaign implementation. However, if you already have some funding for your campaign, you may apply for additional funding through the Communication Labs, allowing you to have a bigger budget and impact.

Question 15: Where can I find more information and the application link?

Visit our website and review the Call for Applications and the Guidelines for Applicants for detailed information. The application link is provided there. Also, register for the Information Session that will be held on September 19, 2023 to learn more about the application process and get all your questions answered. Register here!

Have more questions? Feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]