Deadline: 08-Dec-2025
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) invites civil society organizations (CSOs) and national NGOs in Ethiopia to implement inclusive voter education programs ahead of the country’s 7th General Election. Funding ranges from ETB 2,278,860 to ETB 6,836,580, supporting projects up to six months in duration, aimed at engaging first-time voters, youth, and marginalized communities to promote awareness, participation, and democratic engagement.
Overview of the Program
The UNDP Voter Education initiative seeks to strengthen democratic participation in Ethiopia by providing citizens, especially underrepresented groups, with accessible and accurate information about the electoral process. By focusing on inclusive outreach, the program ensures that historically marginalized populations are informed and empowered to participate in elections confidently.
Objectives
-
Promote inclusive voter education for all citizens
-
Engage first-time voters and youth in the electoral process
-
Strengthen democratic participation and peaceful elections
-
Ensure marginalized and underrepresented groups have equal access to election information
Eligibility Criteria
-
Registered civil society organizations (CSOs) and national NGOs operating in Ethiopia
-
Demonstrated organizational experience and capacity to manage projects and resources
-
Organizations previously assessed through the UNDP Request for Information (RFI) template may not need to resubmit
-
Preference for initiatives targeting underrepresented and marginalized communities
Funding and Project Scope
-
Funding Range: ETB 2,278,860 – ETB 6,836,580
-
Project Duration: Up to 6 months
-
Budgets must reflect the organization’s capacity to manage resources effectively
-
Interventions may focus on community outreach, workshops, digital campaigns, or youth engagement initiatives
How to Apply
-
Review the Request for Information (RFI) template to ensure organizational eligibility.
-
Submit a detailed project proposal including:
-
Target audience and regions
-
Proposed activities and outreach strategies
-
Budget and timeline
-
Expected outcomes and impact
-
-
Ensure your project aligns with the UNDP objectives of inclusive, participatory, and informed voter engagement.
Key Considerations for Applicants
-
Focus on first-time voters, youth, and marginalized communities
-
Ensure inclusive outreach methods that leave no community behind
-
Develop innovative approaches for raising awareness and participation
-
Demonstrate the organization’s capacity to implement and manage projects effectively
Expected Outcomes
-
Increased voter awareness and knowledge of the electoral process
-
Higher participation rates among youth and marginalized groups
-
Strengthened trust in democratic processes and peaceful elections
-
Enhanced organizational capacity in civic education and outreach
FAQ
1. Who can apply?
Civil society organizations and national NGOs operating in Ethiopia.
2. What is the funding range?
ETB 2,278,860 – ETB 6,836,580, depending on project scale and coverage.
3. What is the maximum project duration?
Up to six months.
4. Do previously assessed organizations need to resubmit their RFI?
No, organizations that have already submitted the RFI do not need to resubmit.
5. Which groups should projects focus on?
First-time voters, youth, and historically marginalized or underrepresented communities.
6. What are the expected outcomes of funded projects?
Inclusive voter education, increased participation, informed electorate, and strengthened democratic engagement.
7. How should proposals be submitted?
Through the UNDP Ethiopia submission process following the RFI and project proposal guidelines.
Conclusion
The UNDP Voter Education Grant 2026 offers Ethiopian NGOs and CSOs a unique opportunity to enhance democratic participation by educating citizens about the electoral process. By targeting youth and marginalized populations, the initiative supports a more inclusive, informed, and active electorate, contributing to peaceful and participatory elections in Ethiopia.
For more information, visit UNDP.
