Deadline: 28-Feb-2026
The International Center for Not-for-Profit Law (ICNL) has launched a call for proposals to support civil society organizations in Nepal working to defend and expand civic space. The initiative provides grants of up to USD 20,000 for context-driven projects that promote legal reform, strengthen civil society resilience, and engage regional or international mechanisms, with projects to be completed by October 1, 2026.
Overview of the ICNL Call for Proposals in Nepal
The International Center for Not-for-Profit Law (ICNL) is inviting proposals from eligible civil society organizations in Nepal to support initiatives that protect and expand civic space. The call responds to growing legal, policy, and operational constraints faced by civil society actors, particularly in Least Developed Countries such as Nepal.
The funding aims to enable targeted interventions that safeguard freedoms of association, expression, and peaceful assembly while strengthening the long-term resilience of civil society.
Key Objectives of the Funding Opportunity
This call for proposals is designed to advance open and protected civic space through practical and advocacy-focused actions.
The main objectives include:
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Promoting enabling legal and policy reforms that protect civic freedoms
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Strengthening civil society resilience through capacity development and networking
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Supporting engagement with regional and international multilateral mechanisms
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Amplifying national civic space concerns at higher policy and advocacy levels
Core Focus Areas and Eligible Activities
Proposed projects must directly address challenges affecting civic space in Nepal. Activities may focus on Nepal alone or include collaboration with other eligible countries, provided the primary objective remains the expansion of civic space.
Eligible focus areas include:
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Advocacy against restrictive laws, policies, or regulations affecting civil society
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Capacity-building initiatives to help organizations navigate complex legal and operational environments
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Networking and coalition-building among civil society actors
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Engagement with regional or international human rights and governance mechanisms
Why Civic Space Protection Matters in Nepal
Civil society organizations in Nepal play a critical role in governance, accountability, service delivery, and representation of community interests. In contexts marked by political transition and development challenges, civic actors often act as bridges between communities and decision-makers.
However, legal and administrative restrictions, limited resources, and shrinking operational space threaten their effectiveness. Protecting civic space is essential to ensure inclusive development, democratic participation, and respect for human rights.
Who Is Eligible to Apply
The call is open to civil society organizations that meet the following criteria:
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Legally registered and based in Nepal
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Demonstrated experience in defending or expanding civic space
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Capacity to manage grant funding and implement activities within the timeline
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Alignment with ICNL’s mission and the objectives of this call
Funding Amount and Project Timeline
ICNL will provide grants of up to USD 20,000 per selected project.
All supported projects must:
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Be completed by October 1, 2026
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Demonstrate clear objectives, outputs, and outcomes related to civic space expansion
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Include realistic budgets and implementation plans
How the Grant Works
Selected organizations will receive financial and technical support to implement approved initiatives. The grant structure emphasizes accountability, measurable impact, and strategic relevance to civic space challenges.
Funded projects are expected to document lessons learned and contribute to broader advocacy and knowledge-sharing efforts.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit a complete application package that includes:
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A concise project proposal outlining objectives, activities, and expected results
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A detailed line-item budget aligned with proposed activities
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Relevant CVs of key project staff or organizational leaders
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Evidence of experience and expertise in civic space-related work
Applications should clearly explain how the proposed project will defend or expand civic space in Nepal.
Tips for a Strong Application
To improve the chances of selection:
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Clearly link activities to specific civic space challenges in Nepal
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Demonstrate practical outcomes and policy relevance
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Show organizational capacity and prior experience
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Keep proposals concise, focused, and evidence-based
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid:
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Submitting overly broad or unfocused project ideas
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Proposing activities unrelated to civic space protection
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Providing incomplete budgets or unclear timelines
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Failing to demonstrate organizational experience or capacity
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum grant amount available under this call?
Eligible organizations may apply for grants of up to USD 20,000 per project.
Who can apply for this ICNL funding opportunity?
Legally registered civil society organizations based in Nepal with relevant experience in civic space work are eligible to apply.
Can projects involve activities outside Nepal?
Yes, projects may involve collaboration with other eligible countries, provided the primary focus remains on expanding civic space in Nepal.
What is the project completion deadline?
All funded projects must be completed by October 1, 2026.
What types of activities are prioritized?
Priority is given to advocacy for legal and policy reform, capacity development, networking, and engagement with regional or international mechanisms.
What documents are required for the application?
Applicants must submit a project proposal, detailed budget, relevant CVs, and documentation demonstrating experience in civic space initiatives.
Conclusion
The ICNL call for proposals offers a strategic opportunity for civil society organizations in Nepal to strengthen and protect civic space through targeted, context-driven initiatives. By supporting advocacy, capacity-building, and international engagement, the program aims to empower civic actors to overcome restrictions, amplify community voices, and contribute to inclusive governance and sustainable development.
For more information, visit ICNL.
