CIVICUS Digital Action Lab Cohort 3 (2026): Grants of Up to $20,000 for Civil Society Organisations

Applications are now open for the Digital Action Lab (DAL) Cohort 3, an initiative by CIVICUS Global Alliance that supports civil society organisations to design, test, and scale innovative digital solutions that strengthen civic space, inclusive democracy, and citizen engagement.

The programme is designed for organisations working in challenging or restricted civic environments and offers a combination of funding, technical support, and peer learning opportunities to help turn ideas into impactful digital action.

About the Digital Action Lab

The Digital Action Lab is a global programme that empowers civil society actors to harness digital tools to advance democratic participation and accountability. It focuses on strengthening the ability of organisations to operate effectively in complex civic and political contexts while using technology responsibly and strategically.

Through a structured yet flexible model, the programme integrates learning, experimentation, and collaboration to support organisations from concept development to real-world implementation.

What the Programme Offers

Selected organisations will benefit from a comprehensive support package that includes:

• Grants ranging from USD 10,000 to USD 20,000 to implement digital action projects
• Technical and strategic support to strengthen digital skills and advocacy approaches
• Hands-on guidance on the safe and effective use of digital tools in challenging environments
• Opportunities for peer learning and collaboration with organisations across different regions
• Continuous mentorship and accompaniment throughout project implementation
• Access to global networks and knowledge-sharing platforms within the CIVICUS ecosystem

Programme Duration and Structure

The Digital Action Lab Cohort 3 runs for nine months and follows a cohort-based model designed to support organisations from application to impact.

The programme includes the following stages:

• Call for Applications: An open call invites eligible civil society organisations to apply
• Selection: Up to ten organisations are selected through a competitive process
• Co-Design and Learning: Participants refine and strengthen their project ideas with support from experts and peers
• Funding: Selected organisations receive grants to implement their projects
• Implementation and Accompaniment: Ongoing technical support and coaching are provided throughout the implementation phase
• Peer Learning and Exchange: Participants share experiences, challenges, and solutions across regions
• Impact and Knowledge Sharing: Results, lessons learned, and best practices are documented and shared widely

Eligibility Criteria

The programme is open to:

• Civil society organisations, including formal and informal groups, networks, movements, and coalitions
• Individual activists who are formally affiliated with a civil society organisation

Applicants must:

• Be based in OECD DAC ODA-eligible countries
• Be actively working on democracy and/or civic space issues
• Have some experience using digital tools for advocacy, organising, or service delivery
• Demonstrate the ability to manage grant funding and commit staff time for the full duration of the programme
• Be able to work and submit deliverables in English

Priority Applicants

Preference will be given to:

• Women-led organisations
• Youth-led initiatives
• LGBTQI+ groups
• Indigenous communities
• Grassroots organisations and underrepresented actors
• Organisations operating in obstructed or repressed civic space contexts

Local offices of organisations based in the Global North are not eligible to apply.

Why You Should Apply

The Digital Action Lab provides more than financial support. It is a platform for innovation, collaboration, and capacity strengthening that enables organisations to:

• Develop practical digital solutions for civic engagement and democratic participation
• Strengthen their resilience and adaptability in restrictive environments
• Collaborate with peers and experts across regions
• Scale impactful ideas through structured support and funding
• Contribute to global knowledge on digital civic action and innovation

Impact of the Digital Action Lab

The programme has already supported multiple organisations globally, helping them turn innovative ideas into actionable projects. Through its approach, the Digital Action Lab contributes to strengthening civic participation and building more inclusive democratic systems.

Apply here

FAQs 

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Application Deadline

The deadline to apply for the Digital Action Lab Cohort 3 is:

30 April 2026

How to Apply

Interested organisations are required to complete the official application form and provide clear and concise information about their organisation and proposed project.

Applicants should outline:

• Their organisational background
• The digital solution they wish to develop
• The problem they aim to address
• Expected outcomes and impact
• Their capacity to deliver the project

Applications should be accurate, practical, and aligned with the objectives of the programme.

Apply here

FAQs 

Find out more here 

Pro Tip for Applicants

Strong applications clearly demonstrate a well-defined problem, a practical and achievable digital solution, and a realistic plan for implementation within the nine-month timeframe. Applicants should also highlight how their project will create measurable impact and contribute to strengthening civic space.

For More Opportunities

For more global opportunities, including fellowships, internships, scholarships, and grants, visit:

https://opportunitiesforyouth.org