Deadline: 23-Jun-2026
KIOS Foundation has launched an open call for Expressions of Interest to support human rights initiatives in Sri Lanka led by local civil society organisations. The funding opportunity focuses on promoting and protecting the rights of marginalised groups in vulnerable situations while strengthening democratic participation and human rights protections.
The call forms part of KIOS Foundation’s Strategy 2025–2028 and is supported by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland through the programme “Building Resilient Societies by Advancing Human Rights and Democratic Participation” for 2026–2029.
About the Grant Program
The KIOS Foundation funding call aims to strengthen the work of Sri Lankan civil society organisations that advance human rights, equality, inclusion, and democratic participation.
The initiative prioritizes locally led actions that support vulnerable and marginalized communities while promoting human rights principles, accountability, and social justice. The program also encourages organizations to integrate gender equality, disability inclusion, and the protection of human rights defenders into their work.
Approximately three to five grants will be awarded under this funding round.
Focus Areas
Projects should align with one or more of the following thematic areas:
- Non-Discrimination and Gender Equality
- Democratic Rights and the Rule of Law
- Responsible Business, Environment, and Human Rights
Special consideration will be given to proposals under:
- Responsible Business, Environment, and Human Rights
Cross-Cutting Priorities
Applicants are expected to integrate the following themes across all proposed activities:
Projects should also:
- Avoid causing negative impacts on the climate and environment
- Promote inclusive and sustainable approaches
Purpose of the Program
The initiative aims to:
- Support human rights work in Sri Lanka
- Promote the rights of marginalized and vulnerable groups
- Strengthen democratic participation
- Advance equality and non-discrimination
- Improve protection of human rights defenders
- Encourage inclusive and rights-based development
- Build resilient and democratic societies
Funding Information
Funding details include:
- Approximately 3 to 5 grants available
- Individual grants ranging from €20,000 to €40,000
- Maximum project duration of 12 months
Additional opportunity:
- Organizations that successfully complete funded projects may have opportunities to apply for future KIOS grants
Eligible Applicants
Eligible applicants include:
- Sri Lankan civil society organisations
- Non-profit organizations
- Independent organizations operating in Sri Lanka
- Organizations committed to non-violence and human rights principles
- Grassroots organizations with active operations
- Organizations with basic administrative structures
- Organizations with accountability mechanisms
Organizations led by the following groups are particularly encouraged to apply:
- Women
- Youth
- Marginalized communities
Geographic Priorities
The call is open to organizations across Sri Lanka.
Priority will be given to:
- Organizations operating outside Colombo
Colombo-based organizations may still be eligible if:
- Their proposed activities are implemented in other regions of Sri Lanka
Ineligible Applicants
The following are not eligible for funding:
- Individuals
- For-profit entities
- Political parties
- Religious institutions
- Government bodies
- International non-governmental organizations
Organizations that previously received KIOS funding may only apply if:
- All previous KIOS-funded projects have been fully completed
- Final reports for previous projects have been submitted
Application Process
The application process includes:
- Submission of an Expression of Interest through the KIOS online application portal
- Review and assessment of submitted applications
- Shortlisting of selected applicants
- Invitation to submit a full proposal
- Evaluation of full proposals
- Grant award decisions
Shortlisted applicants will be given:
- Fifteen days to submit a full proposal after receiving an invitation
Important Dates
Key dates include:
- Expression of Interest deadline: 23 June 2026
- Full proposal submission: Within 15 days of invitation for shortlisted applicants
- Expected grant awards: Late 2026 to early 2027
Importance of the Grant Program
The program provides important support for local organizations working to advance human rights and democratic participation in Sri Lanka.
Key benefits include:
- Funding for human rights initiatives
- Support for marginalized communities
- Strengthening of local civil society organizations
- Promotion of democratic values
- Advancement of gender equality and inclusion
- Increased protection for human rights defenders
- Opportunities for future funding support
Application Tips
Strong applications typically demonstrate:
- Clear alignment with one or more thematic priorities
- Strong focus on human rights outcomes
- Meaningful inclusion of marginalized groups
- Integration of gender equality and disability inclusion
- Realistic implementation plans
- Strong organizational accountability mechanisms
- Clear community impact
Common Application Mistakes
Applications may be weakened by:
- Weak connection to the program’s thematic areas
- Failure to address cross-cutting priorities
- Limited evidence of organizational capacity
- Unclear project objectives
- Incomplete application information
- Insufficient focus on marginalized communities
- Activities that may negatively affect the environment
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the grant?
- Sri Lankan civil society organizations.
- Non-profit organizations operating in Sri Lanka.
- Grassroots organizations with active operations and accountability mechanisms.
- Organizations committed to non-violence and human rights principles.
What thematic areas are supported?
- Non-Discrimination and Gender Equality.
- Democratic Rights and the Rule of Law.
- Responsible Business, Environment, and Human Rights.
How much funding is available?
- Individual grants are expected to range from €20,000 to €40,000.
- Approximately three to five grants will be awarded.
How long can funded projects last?
- Projects may be implemented for up to 12 months.
Are organizations outside Colombo encouraged to apply?
- Yes.
- Priority will be given to organizations operating outside Colombo.
Can previous KIOS grant recipients apply?
- Yes.
- Previous KIOS-funded projects must be fully completed and reported before applying.
When is the application deadline?
- Expressions of Interest must be submitted by 23 June 2026.
Conclusion
The KIOS Foundation Expression of Interest call offers valuable funding opportunities for Sri Lankan civil society organizations working to advance human rights, equality, inclusion, and democratic participation. Through grants of up to €40,000, the initiative supports locally led solutions that strengthen the rights of marginalized communities and contribute to more resilient and democratic societies across Sri Lanka.
For more information, visit KIOS Foundation.
