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Request for Proposals: Fritt Ord Fund (Norway)

Deadline: 09-Jan-2026

The Fritt Ord Fund supports projects that promote freedom of expression, public discourse, and cultural initiatives, primarily in Norway or with ties to Norway. Funding is typically provided for one-year projects across areas such as media, art, literature, events, scholarships, and academic research. Applicants must submit a detailed project description, budget, CV, and supporting documents via the digital application form.

Overview of the Fritt Ord Fund

The Fritt Ord Fund provides project-based support to initiatives that contribute to the common good and are publicly accessible. The Foundation primarily funds projects in Norway or those with significant connections to Norway, although under certain circumstances, projects in other countries may be supported. Funding is usually granted one year at a time, even for multi-year projects.

Why It Matters

The Fund enables organizations and individuals to:

  • Promote freedom of expression and open public discourse.

  • Support art, culture, and creative initiatives accessible to the public.

  • Contribute to scholarships, research, and educational activities in relevant fields.

  • Amplify projects with societal impact, fostering dialogue and knowledge dissemination.

Eligible Projects

Projects supported by Fritt Ord include:

  • Events and public forums

  • Books, Media, and Journalism

  • Films, Dramatic Art, Photography, and Podcasts

  • Art projects and Exhibitions

  • International projects and organizations

  • Scholarships and Grants

  • Libraries and Academic Research

Applicants with projects that do not clearly fall into these categories are encouraged to contact the Foundation directly for guidance.

Projects Typically Not Supported

Fritt Ord generally does not fund:

  • Cultural artifact preservation, infrastructure, or activism

  • Information materials or small in-house training

  • Feature films, fiction books, commemorative publications

  • Archive/digitization projects without outreach

  • Closed meetings, concerts, recordings, study tours, or summer schools

  • Lobbying initiatives or projects aimed primarily at young children

Funding and Disbursement Guidelines

  • Funding is project-based, not core funding.

  • Grants over NOK 300,000 require certified financial accounts.

  • Disbursement requests must be submitted through the application centre using the original account.

  • Funds may be requested before costs arise.

  • For projects with instalments, subsequent payments must be requested by email.

  • Allocations are withdrawn if no disbursement request is submitted within a year (unless postponed).

  • Funds may be reclaimed if the project deviates from the approved plan.

  • A final report must be submitted within two months of the project completion date.

How to Apply

  1. Complete the digital application form.

  2. Submit the following documents in PDF format:

    • Project description (2–8 pages)

    • Budget and funding plan

    • CV of applicant(s)

    • Any relevant supporting documents

  3. The application form includes brief entries on the project, use of funds, and timetable, each limited to 500 characters.

  4. All documents should be final versions uploaded separately.

  5. Applicants may submit one physical attachment, which will not be returned unless requested.

Tips for Applicants

  • Ensure the project description is clear, comprehensive, and within the page limit.

  • Provide a detailed budget and funding plan aligned with the project goals.

  • Adhere strictly to Fritt Ord’s eligible project categories.

  • Submit all documents on time and follow the disbursement and reporting procedures.

FAQ

1. Can international projects apply?
Yes, projects outside Norway may be supported under certain circumstances, particularly if they promote freedom of expression.

2. Is multi-year funding available?
Fritt Ord mainly funds projects for one year at a time, even for multi-year initiatives.

3. What is required for large grants over NOK 300,000?
Applicants must provide financial accounts certified by a chartered accountant.

4. How are disbursements requested?
Through the application centre, using the original account. Instalments must be requested by email.

5. What documents are required for the application?
Project description, budget and funding plan, CV, and supporting documents in PDF format, plus one optional physical attachment.

6. When must the final report be submitted?
Within two months of the project completion date specified in the application.

7. Are all project types eligible?
Eligible projects include events, books, media, films, dramatic art, photography, podcasts, art projects, exhibitions, scholarships, libraries, and research. Some types, such as feature films or infrastructure projects, are typically not supported.

Conclusion

The Fritt Ord Fund provides essential support for projects that strengthen freedom of expression, public discourse, and cultural engagement, primarily in Norway. By offering project-based funding, the Foundation empowers artists, researchers, and organizations to create accessible, impactful initiatives that contribute to the common good and foster societal dialogue.

For more information, visit The Fritt Ord Foundation.