We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you navigate the application process and participation in the Communication Labs. Whether you’re wondering about eligibility, time commitment, or safety measures, this FAQ provides clear and practical answers. Please carefully read the Guidelines for Applicants (in English or in Romanian) and check the eligibility criteria before applying. If you don’t find the information you need, feel free to reach out to our team for further clarification at [email protected].
1) Our organisation has been working since 2018 as an informal volunteer group, and we officially registered our organisation only 6 months ago. Is it eligible to apply?
Yes, it is eligible. You need to demonstrate that your organisation is currently officially registered as a legal entity, and you and your organisation, in whatever status, have at least 2 years of experience working on the issue you want to address within your communication campaign.
2) Are Local Action Groups eligible to participate in Comm.Labs for civil society organisations from the Republic of Moldova?
Provided they are officially registered as nonprofit organisations in the Republic of Moldova and meet the other eligibility requirements outlined in the Guidelines for Applicants, Local Action Groups are eligible to apply. If your group is not formally registered, we encourage you to explore participation in partnership with an eligible registered civil society organisation that could act as the applicant organisation and lead the campaign implementation.
3) We are a part of the international foundation, headquartered in Europe. However, in Moldova we are registered as a local legal entity under Moldovan legislation and operate independently rather than as a branch office. Given this status, could you please confirm we would be eligible to apply under this call?
It sounds like your organisation would be eligible to apply, as it is registered as a legal entity in Moldova and operates locally. The Guidelines mention that the preference will be given to local and regional organisations, particularly those operating outside the capital. However, this does not mean that organisations with links to international networks or foundations are automatically excluded.
In addition, this aspect is only one of several evaluation criteria and is worth up to 5 points out of a total of 50 points. The quality and relevance of the campaign idea, its potential impact, contribution to sustainability, and overall feasibility are all important parts of the assessment.
4) Are travel expenses covered for the Kick-off event in Chisinau for team members travelling from other cities in Moldova?
Yes, travel expenses for participation in the Kick-off event in Chisinau are covered by our EU-funded Project for participants travelling from any region in Moldova. This includes transportation, accommodation, and meals.
5) Can team members who are not Moldovan citizens participate in the programme?
Yes, team members who are not Moldovan citizens can participate, for example, in the following circumstances:
- An originally Moldovan person has changed their citizenship.
- They are citizens of the EU or other EaP countries, part of the operational team of a Moldovan CSO and critical to the campaign’s implementation due to their expertise, experience, or strategic role within the CSO.
6) Can individuals apply, or does it have to be an organisation?
Applications must come from organisations, not individuals. However, individuals can participate as team members representing their organisations or initiatives. Only the lead applicant must represent a registered organisation (the applying CSO), other team members may represent the lead applicant’s organisation, or another civil society organisation, civic movement or initiative group from the applying CSO’s network.
7) How many hours per week should participants dedicate to the capacity-building programme, including mentoring sessions and campaign design?
Participants should anticipate dedicating approximately 2-3 hours per week to the mentoring sessions, and 3-4 hours per week (on average) to work with your team on developing your campaign. However, the workload may vary depending on the specific stage of the programme and the complexity and scope of your campaign concept.
8) What happens if our circumstances change during the programme, and we are unable to complete it?
We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise. If such a situation occurs, we encourage you to communicate with the Project team immediately to discuss alternative arrangements or solutions.
9) What kind of reporting or documentation is expected from participants during or after the programme?
During the capacity-building stage, participants will have regular check-in meetings with the Project team. These meetings will help assess progress, identify any challenges, and provide the necessary support. At the end of this stage, participants will need to submit a final campaign proposal. No specific formal reporting is required during the capacity-building phase.
Participants selected to receive funding shall submit narrative and financial reports on the implemented campaigns, once mid-way through the campaign implementation and upon its completion. These reports will include details on the campaign progress and expenses incurred, along with supporting financial documents, e.g. invoices, proofs of payment, etc.
