The U.S. Embassy Praia Ambassador's Special Self-Help (SSH) Program funds small-scale, community-driven projects that address local needs through self-help initiatives, typically in Cape Verde. It exists to empower communities to improve their own living conditions with modest U.S. government support, emphasizing sustainability, local ownership, and tangible impact.

- Community involvement and local ownership (project must be initiated and managed by the community) - Sustainability (project must have long-term benefits without ongoing U.S. funding) - Tangible, measurable impact on a specific community need - Feasibility of budget and timeline - Alignment with U.S. Embassy priorities (e.g., economic development, education, health, women/youth empowerment) - Applicant must be a Cape Verdean organization or individual (or project based in Cape Verde) - No political or religious activities - Cost-sharing or in-kind contributions from the community are a plus

Past winners are typically small community groups, NGOs, or local cooperatives in Cape Verde that have implemented projects like school renovations, water supply systems, community gardens, health awareness campaigns, or vocational training workshops. No named examples were found on the page, but the program favors grassroots, low-cost, high-impact initiatives.

A Cape Verdean community-based organization or local leader with a clear, simple project that addresses a pressing local need (e.g., clean water, education, health). The applicant should demonstrate strong community support, a realistic budget, and a plan for sustainability. The project should be self-help in nature—meaning the community contributes labor, materials, or funds.