The project is within the framework of the CRPM, sub-program for empowering civil society organizations and fostering regional collaboration for societal development. Within the framework of the project, the main activity includes grant distribution (over 450 grants), capacity building for civil society organizations (CSOs), and fostering partnerships.

The goal of the project is to strengthen participatory democracies and Euro-Atlantic integration in the Western Balkans through empowering CSOs and fostering peaceful, inclusive societies for sustainable development.

This project is carried out across six Western Balkan countries: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia.

The SMART Balkans project is supported by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and implemented by a consortium of three organizations:

• Centar za promociju civilnog društva (CPCD) – Lead partner, responsible for Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro;
• Center for Research and Policy Making (CRPM) – Responsible for North Macedonia and Serbia;
• Institute for Democracy and Mediation (IDM) – Responsible for Albania and Kosovo.

Project duration: January 2022 – January 2026

Final beneficiaries:

Civil society organizations and networks across the Western Balkans.

Media outlets and informal citizens’ groups.

The general public in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia.

Target groups:

• Civil Society Organizations (CSOs);

• Media outlets;

• Regional networks;

• Citizens.

Key activities:

• Activity 1: Grant Distribution;
• Activity 2: Capacity Building;
• Activity 3: Financial Academy;
• Activity 4: Regional Collaboration and Training.