Up to $150,000 in Funding for Organisations Advancing Democracy & Human Rights – NED Grants

The National Endowment for Democracy Grants Program funds nongovernmental organisations around the world delivering projects that advance democracy, protect human rights and strengthen democratic institutions.

Here’s what you can expect:

• No fixed maximum grant amount is published

• Funding for projects promoting and defending human rights and the rule of law

• Support for freedom of information and independent media

• Projects strengthening democratic ideas and values

• Accountability and transparency initiatives

• Support to strengthen civil society organisations

• Democratic political processes and institutions

• Civic education

• Democratic conflict resolution

• Freedom of association

• Projects supporting a broad-based market economy

• Funding decisions are made three times each year by NED's Board of Directors.

Who can apply?

• Nongovernmental organisations

• Civil society organisations

• Civic organisations and associations

• Independent media organisations

• Other similar nongovernmental groups

• Organisations working in emerging democracies, countries undergoing democratic transitions and more restrictive political environments

• Organisations based in established democracies can potentially apply where their project operates in an eligible country or region

• Individuals cannot apply

• Government bodies aren't eligible

• State-supported institutions, including public universities, aren't eligible.

Interestingly, an organisation doesn't necessarily have to be formally registered. Where registration isn't possible, applicants can explain why and provide information on their current legal status instead.

Deadline: 21 September 2026 for consideration at the next funding round. Applications submitted afterwards move to the following round, with the next deadline on 27 January 2027.