Deadline: 15-Apr-2026
The International Center for Not-for-Profit Law (ICNL) invites proposals from Nepal-based non-profits to strengthen and protect civic space. The initiative focuses on legal advocacy, civil society resilience, and capacity building, supporting groups working to uphold freedoms of association, expression, assembly, and privacy. Projects must be completed by December 31, 2026.
About the Initiative
The ICNL funding opportunity aims to strengthen civic space in Nepal by supporting initiatives that enhance the ability of civil society to operate freely, safely, and effectively. The program encourages legal advocacy, resilience building, and capacity development to ensure that civil society organizations can engage fully in policy and public discourse.
Key Focus Areas
Proposals should address one or more of the following areas:
- Advocacy for enabling laws and policies
- Promote legal and policy frameworks that reduce restrictions on civic freedoms online and offline
- Civil society resilience
- Develop resources, trainings, and networks to strengthen organizational capacity and sustainability
- Capacity building
- Enhance the ability of organizations and community leaders to understand, defend, and influence policy affecting civic rights
Context and Relevance
Nepal is entering a new political phase, with key laws under review, including:
- Organization registration regulations
- Social media and cybersecurity policies
- Data protection and artificial intelligence legislation
Civil society actors face opportunities and challenges due to digital government services and AI expansion, as well as concerns about potential regulatory responses following incidents of violence. Strengthening organizations in this context ensures they can continue to:
- Uphold fundamental freedoms
- Access international funding
- Facilitate peaceful assembly and civic engagement
- Contribute to good governance and accountability
Eligibility
Eligible applicants must:
- Be a non-profit organization legally based in Nepal
- Propose projects with activities completed by December 31, 2026
- Demonstrate collaborative, inclusive, and innovative approaches
- Preferably involve diverse coalitions and support women and marginalized communities, including Dalits
Why This Opportunity Matters
The initiative supports civil society in navigating legal, technological, and social changes while maintaining freedom of operation. Strengthened organizations can better:
- Advocate for enabling legal frameworks
- Protect rights and freedoms in both digital and physical spaces
- Build inclusive coalitions and networks
- Enhance community engagement and policy participation
How to Apply
Applicants should:
- Confirm eligibility
Ensure your organization is a Nepal-based non-profit and can complete project activities by December 31, 2026. - Develop a strong proposal
- Clearly define objectives, activities, and expected outcomes
- Highlight collaborative and inclusive approaches
- Demonstrate potential impact on civic space
- Align with focus areas
Ensure your project addresses legal advocacy, resilience building, or capacity development for civil society. - Include marginalized communities
Emphasize the inclusion of women, Dalits, and other underrepresented groups where relevant.
FAQs
1. Who is eligible to apply?
Non-profit organizations legally based in Nepal.
2. What types of projects are supported?
Projects that strengthen civic space via legal advocacy, civil society resilience, and capacity building, including initiatives supporting marginalized groups.
3. Can individual activists or groups outside Nepal apply?
No. Only Nepal-based non-profit organizations are eligible.
4. What is the deadline for completing projects?
All project activities must be completed by December 31, 2026.
5. Are collaborative projects encouraged?
Yes. Inclusive, coalition-based, and innovative projects are strongly encouraged.
6. Which communities should be prioritized?
Projects should prioritize women, marginalized communities, and Dalits wherever applicable.
7. Why is this funding important now?
It strengthens civil society at a critical political moment, ensuring organizations can defend freedoms, influence policy, and engage in safe civic activities.
Final Takeaway
The ICNL civic space funding opportunity provides Nepal-based non-profits with resources to advocate for enabling laws, strengthen resilience, and build capacity. By supporting inclusive, collaborative, and innovative projects, this initiative helps safeguard freedoms, enhance civic participation, and ensure that civil society can thrive amid ongoing political and technological changes.
For more information, visit International Center for Not-for-Profit Law.