Frequently Asked Questions
How can we help you?
What is GIZ?
Working on behalf of the German Government, the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH is a service provider in the field of international cooperation for sustainable development and international education work, dedicated to shaping a future worth living around the world.
GIZ's main commissioning party is Germany's Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). Other commissioners include European Union institutions, the United Nations, the private sector, and governments of other countries.
What is the cooperation framework of GIZ in Egypt?
Operating in Egypt since 1956, GIZ provides technical expertise, develops capacities, and delivers effective solutions in close partnership with local governmental and non-governmental organisations.GIZ Egypt currently employs around 355 national and 35 international experts. GIZ supports Egypt in its efforts to achieve the “Sustainable Development Strategy: Egypt Vision 2030” in order to create better social and economic prospects for the Egyptian people.On behalf of the German Government, the European Union, and other parties, GIZ implements projects across Egypt in the areas of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency; Water Supply and Sanitation, Irrigation and Waste Management; Sustainable Economic Development for Employment; Governance and Urban Development.For more information, please visit
http://www.giz.de/egypt
What is the Supporting e-government and Innovation in Public Administration (InnoPA)?
GIZ Egypt’s project Supporting eGovernment and Innovation in Public Administration (InnoPA) is a joint project implemented by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) in Egypt, on behalf of the German Federal Government, and in partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT). The project aims to strengthen the capacities of the public sector and civil society to drive an inclusive and responsive digital transformation in line with European standards.
Who are the partners for InnoPA?
InnoPA political partners are Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MCIT) and Ministry of Economic Development and International Cooperation (MOPEDIC).
What are the steps of the application process?
To apply, you’ll first need to create a profile on the platform and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). If shortlisted, you will be invited to participate in a training session to prepare for the next stages. This will be followed by the Concept Note submission phase, and finally, the submission of the full technical and financial proposal.
Why is InnoPA commissioning funds for CSOs?
InnoPA is allocating these funds to empower civil society organizations with the necessary skills and tools to implement initiatives aimed at bridging the digital divide in underserved communities. Additionally, it seeks to foster open dialogue between CSOs and the public sector, enabling them to effectively represent citizens' perspectives to decision-makers.
Will GIZ provide training or onboarding if selected?
Yes. GIZ team will provide both training and orientations session to initially selected participants to better understand the scope, use innovative and critical thinking for solving community issues to have full understanding of technical, financial, contractual and reporting obligations.
Do we need a separate bank account for the grant funds?
Yes. Recipients are strongly encouraged to open a dedicated project bank account to ensure transparent financial management and ease of reconciliation during reporting and audits.
In which currency will we receive the funds?
Euro. Funds will be disbursed in euro. All financial transactions and reporting should be aligned with the contract currency.
Can we use the grant funds to pay VAT or taxes?
Yes, with conditions. Please note that the grant is not exempt from taxes. The project does not provide VAT exemptions under this grant. VAT and other applicable taxes are considered eligible costs only if they are unavoidable and not reclaimable under national law.
How do we calculate eligible personnel costs?
Eligible personnel costs should be calculated based on actual gross salaries (including mandatory social security contributions) proportionate to the time dedicated to the project. Clear time documentation (e.g., monthly timesheets) will be required as supporting evidence.
Is there a specific format/template for the proposal or budget?
Yes. A standard GIZ template for both the proposal and budget will be shared with shortlisted applicants. These formats must be used to ensure consistency and comparability.
Will our organization be assessed for financial capacity?
Yes. GIZ conducts a pre-award assessment to evaluate your organization's financial systems, internal controls, and ability to manage donor funds effectively.
Are there budget ceilings for specific cost categories (e.g., personnel, equipment)?
Yes, in some cases. GIZ may impose caps or percentage limits on certain budget lines to ensure cost-efficiency and alignment with funding priorities. These will be communicated during the proposal stage.
Can overhead costs be included?
Yes. Overhead costs are included and allowable by percentage specified by GIZ.
Can we start preparatory activities before signing the contract?
No. Costs incurred before the official contract start date are not eligible. Activities may only begin once the agreement is signed by both parties.
Are contingency costs or inflation adjustments allowed in the proposal?
No. Contingency reserves and inflation adjustments are not permitted. All budget calculations must be made in EUR.