Apply for the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) Grants to Support Civil Society and Democratic Initiatives Worldwide

Organizations working to strengthen democracy, protect human rights, and promote civic participation can now apply for funding through the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) Grants Program. This global funding initiative supports nongovernmental organizations implementing projects that advance democratic values and strengthen democratic institutions in countries around the world.

Each year, the National Endowment for Democracy awards more than 2,000 grants to civil society organizations operating in more than 100 countries. These grants support projects led by local organizations that work to advance democratic governance, accountability, transparency, and citizen participation.

The program is designed to empower independent organizations that are addressing democratic challenges in their communities, including those working in newly established democracies, countries undergoing democratic transitions, and regions experiencing restrictions on civil society or political freedoms.

What the NED Grants Program Supports

The NED Grants Program funds nonpartisan initiatives that strengthen democratic systems and civic engagement. Projects funded through this program are typically led by local civil society organizations that work directly with communities, journalists, policymakers, and advocacy groups.

The program supports initiatives that focus on a wide range of democracy-related themes, including:

• Promoting and defending human rights and the rule of law
• Supporting freedom of information and independent media
• Strengthening democratic institutions and political processes
• Promoting transparency, accountability, and anti-corruption initiatives
• Supporting civic education and democratic participation
• Strengthening civil society organizations and grassroots networks
• Encouraging democratic conflict resolution and dialogue
• Promoting freedom of association and open civic space

These projects often aim to address local governance challenges while strengthening institutions that support democratic values and citizen engagement.

Through these grants, the National Endowment for Democracy helps civil society organizations implement programs that empower communities, improve democratic governance, and support inclusive participation in public life.

Why This Opportunity Matters

Civil society organizations play a critical role in promoting accountability, protecting human rights, and strengthening democratic institutions around the world. However, many organizations working in these areas face limited financial resources and increasing restrictions on civic engagement.

Programs like the NED Grants Program provide essential support for organizations working to address these challenges. By funding local initiatives, the program enables communities to develop solutions tailored to their own political and social contexts.

Through these partnerships, the National Endowment for Democracy supports initiatives that encourage citizen participation, strengthen democratic governance, and protect fundamental freedoms in societies where these values are still developing.

Who Can Apply

The NED Grants Program is open to nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) around the world. Eligible applicants may include civic organizations, independent media outlets, advocacy groups, and other nonprofit institutions working on democracy-related initiatives.

However, there are several important eligibility requirements to consider:

• Grants are awarded only to nongovernmental organizations.
• Individuals, government institutions, and state-supported institutions such as public universities are not eligible for funding.
• Organizations based in established democracies may apply if their project focuses on work taking place in eligible countries or regions.

NED encourages proposals from organizations operating in diverse political contexts, including emerging democracies, countries undergoing political transitions, and environments where civil society faces significant challenges.

Grant Amount and Project Duration

Funding amounts vary depending on the scope, scale, and complexity of the proposed project. Projects should clearly outline their objectives, expected outcomes, and strategies for strengthening democratic participation or governance.

How to Apply

Organizations interested in applying for a National Endowment for Democracy grant must submit a detailed proposal outlining their planned project and its expected impact.

Applications typically require the following materials:

• Organizational Profile Form
• Application Proposal Form
• Proposal Narrative describing the project
• Detailed project budget
• Registration documentation confirming the legal status of the organization (if applicable)

Applicants must submit their proposal via email to the appropriate regional contact based on where the project will take place. Regional submission addresses are available for Africa, Asia, Europe, Eurasia, Latin America and the Caribbean, and the Middle East and North Africa.

Funding decisions are made three times per year by the NED Board of Directors, which evaluates proposals based on how well they align with program priorities, the needs of the country or region, and the experience of the applicant organization.

Application Deadline

Organizations planning to apply for a grant through the National Endowment for Democracy should prepare their proposal materials in advance.

Next Proposal Submission Deadline: June 2, 2026

Proposals submitted after the deadline will be considered for the following funding cycle.

To learn more and apply, visit the official NED website.

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