[March 2026]
Promoting democracy and good governance is key to strengthening institutions, protecting rights and encouraging civic participation. That is why we have curated a listing of 40+ opportunities for organizations and initiatives working to advance democracy and good governance.
RFPs: Pau Casals UNESCO Chair Research Grant Program
Deadline: 12-Apr-2026
The Pau Casals UNESCO Chair Research Grant Program 2026 provides €2,000 to support early-stage research projects exploring music, culture, peace, democracy, and human rights. Open to applicants of any nationality, the program supports university-linked research aligned with the legacy of Pablo Casals and contemporary social justice themes. Applications close on April 12, 2026, with final research results due by May 2, 2027…[more]
Apply Now: Seed-Fund Collaborative Primary Research Proposals
Deadline: 23-Mar-2026
The Urban Studies Foundation (USF) Urban Urgencies Research Funding Call provides up to £35,000 per project to support rapid, collaborative urban research addressing pressing global urban challenges. The initiative prioritises innovative, policy-relevant projects co-produced by academic and non-academic partners to advance equitable, sustainable urban futures…[more]
2026 Democracy x AI Cohort to Support AI Tools Strengthening Democracy
Deadline: 16-Mar-2026
The 2026 Democracy x AI Cohort by the Mozilla Foundation supports AI-powered technologies that actively strengthen democracy. Approximately 10 projects will receive $50,000 each plus 12 months of structured incubation support to improve product quality, sustainability, and democratic impact. Eligible applicants must have a working AI-driven tool already in use, a committed team, and a demonstrated commitment to openness or open-source practices…[more]
Open Call for Performing Artists Under the Democracy Cycle Initiative
Deadline: 28-Apr-2026
The Perelman Performing Arts Center invites national and international performing artists to propose new live works exploring democracy, particularly in the United States. Selected artists will receive a total commission of $60,000, including $30,000 for creation and $30,000 for research and development, with projects expected to premiere in 2027 or 2028. Eligible disciplines include theater, dance, music, opera, and multidisciplinary performance…[more]
Call for Proposals: International One-Off Youth Co-Operation Project
Deadline: 01-Apr-2026
The European Youth Foundation (EYF) invites proposals for international youth cooperation activities that promote human rights, democracy, and intercultural understanding. Projects should engage young people from at least seven Council of Europe member states, focus on thematic priorities like pluralistic democracy and youth rights, and may receive up to €25,000 in funding for implementation in 2027…[more]
Supporting Roma Civil Society Organizations Promoting Values (EU)
Deadline: 16-Mar-2026
The ERGO Network ROVA Call 2026–2027 invites Roma and pro-Roma civil society organizations in select EU countries to apply for grants up to €20,000 to promote fundamental rights and European values. Projects focus on awareness-raising, advocacy, capacity building, and community initiatives to combat antigypsyism, advance equality, and strengthen cooperation between Roma communities and public institutions…[more]
CFAs: Roma and Pro-Roma NGOs Supporting EU Values (Czech Republic and Slovakia)
Deadline: 16-Mar-2026
RomanoNet invites applications from Roma and pro-Roma civil society organizations in the Czech Republic and Slovakia to strengthen Roma communities and promote fundamental rights and European Union values. The call supports capacity-building, advocacy, monitoring, and community engagement initiatives, with grants up to €25,000 per project over a 13-month implementation period…[more]
Applications open for Impact Seed Fund
Deadline: 19-Apr-2026
The Pulitzer Center Impact Seed Fund (ISF) Africa 2026 provides grants to university lecturers and researchers to expand the educational impact of journalism on environmental, ocean, climate, and labor issues. The program encourages collaborations between educators, students, journalists, and communities, promoting awareness, multimedia storytelling, and inclusive teaching in African academic contexts…[more]
Call for Applications: Best Tourism Villages Initiative 2026
Deadline: 09-Jun-2026
The Best Tourism Villages Program promotes sustainable rural tourism by recognizing villages that excel in cultural and natural heritage protection, governance, infrastructure, and community wellbeing. Eligible villages are nominated by UN Tourism Member States, evaluated across nine sustainability indicators, and may participate in an Upgrade Programme if they need support to meet recognition criteria. Applications are open until 9 June 2026…[more]
RFPs: International long-Term Youth Co-Operation Projects
Deadline: 01-Apr-2026
The European Youth Foundation (EYF) of the Council of Europe is inviting proposals for international long-term youth cooperation projects that promote democracy, human rights, solidarity, and youth participation. The call has an indicative budget of €600,000, with up to 10 grants available and a maximum of €60,000 per project. Eligible applicants include international youth NGOs and networks registered in the EYF system…[more]
Call for Applications: Transition Agendas Development Program
Deadline Date: May 27, 2026
The European Union is offering funding opportunities through the Transition Agenda Development (TA) initiative, targeting projects that advance sustainable practices, environmental protection, and governance in the Mediterranean basin…[more]
Australia Awards Scholarships for Emerging Leaders in Niue
Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
Australia Awards Scholarships for Niue provide fully funded study opportunities in Australia for emerging leaders committed to sustainable development. The program supports priority sectors such as education, governance, and economic development, covering tuition, travel, living expenses, and health insurance. Eligible Niue residents with at least three years of work experience can apply to gain internationally recognized qualifications and leadership skills…[more]
CFPs: Strengthening Civil Society for Governance and Development (Congo DR)
Deadline: 20-Apr-2026
The European Commission invites civil society organizations (CSOs) to apply for grants ranging from EUR 1,000,000 to EUR 1,500,000 to strengthen democratic governance, citizen participation, and sustainable development in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Projects will focus on human rights, transparency, community engagement, and local accountability, targeting marginalized groups and rural areas…[more]
Apply Now: Strengthening Palestinian Civil Society (Palestine)
Deadline: 22-Mar-2026
The “Strengthening Palestinian Civil Society” project provides sub-grants of EUR 10,000–20,000 to women– and youth-led CSOs in Palestine. The initiative supports democratic engagement, inclusive dialogue, and community resilience through rapid-response civic mechanisms, leadership development, and capacity-building programs…[more]
Funding Opportunities for CSOs Advancing Democracy and Human Rights (Panama)
Deadline: 05-Jun-2026
The European Commission invites applications for grants to strengthen civil society organizations (CSOs) and human rights defenders as independent actors in governance, democracy, and sustainable development. Funding of EUR 1,400,000 is available across two lots, supporting projects that promote inclusive participation, transparency, biodiversity protection, energy transition, and youth and gender inclusion. Projects must demonstrate measurable impact and capacity building at local, national, or thematic levels…[more]
Public Call for Civil Society Organizations under ReLOaD3 Programme (Kosovo)
Deadline: 23-Mar-2026
The Municipality of Vushtrri/Vučitrn, in partnership with UNDP under the ReLOaD3 programme, invites Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Kosovo to apply for funding to strengthen local governance, civic participation, cultural development, and community engagement. Grants range from EUR 5,000 to EUR 30,000, with projects running 6–12 months between May 2026 and April 2027. Priority is given to CSOs operating within the Municipality of Vushtrri/Vučitrn…[more]
Call for Local Democracy and Inclusion Grants (Bulgaria)
Deadline: 20-Apr-2026
The Code of Success fund offers up to €15,000 to local Bulgarian civil society organizations for projects promoting EU values, democracy, inclusion, and human rights. Grants support 12–18 month initiatives, targeting vulnerable communities and fostering civic engagement, media freedom, and societal pluralism…[more]
EU Call to Strengthen Civil Society in Governance and Development (Bhutan)
Deadline: 21-Apr-2026
The European Union has launched a funding call under the Civil Society Organisations (CSO) Thematic Programme 2021–2027 to strengthen governance, democracy, and sustainable development in Bhutan…[more]
Entries open for Fulbright Specialist Program (Kosovo)
Deadline: 31-May-2026
The USKEB invites Kosovan host institutions to apply for the Fulbright Specialist Program, bringing U.S. scholars and professionals to Kosovo for short-term, outcome-driven projects. The program strengthens institutional capacity, promotes collaboration, and advances priority areas such as STEM, economic development, governance, and cultural heritage…[more]
Capacity Building and Networking Grant to Strengthen Civil Society (Hungary)
Deadline: 05-May-2026
The Capacity Building and Networking Grant in Hungary supports innovative projects that strengthen civil society organisations (CSOs), particularly in rural and under-resourced areas. Grants ranging from €50,000 to €100,000 are available for projects lasting 24–48 months, with a total funding envelope of €1,000,000. The programme prioritises democracy, human rights, rule of law, organisational resilience, and collaboration between CSOs, local communities, and public authorities…[more]
CFAs: Call No.1 for Small Grants (Slovakia)
Deadline: 31-Mar-2026
Call No. 1 for Small Grants under the EEA Civil Society Fund supports Slovak civil society organizations working to protect democratic values, transparency, and social cohesion. Grants of up to EUR 25,000 are available for projects lasting 1 to 12 months, awarded on a rolling basis. The funding prioritizes advocacy, watchdog activities, media literacy, refugee integration, and responses to disinformation and democratic backsliding…[more]
RFAs: Promoting Democracy and Human Rights Initiatives in Taiwan
Deadline: 15-Apr-2026
The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy (TFD) provides funding to support domestic academics, NGOs, think tanks, and university departments in advancing democracy and human rights. Grants fund research, publications, seminars, public forums, and international engagement activities that strengthen democratic development in Taiwan and increase its global visibility…[more]
Organisational Grants Supporting the Strategic Development of CSO (Hungary)
Deadline: 11-May-2026
The Organisational Grants Programme provides €5,000,000 in funding to strengthen Hungarian civil society organisations working on democracy, rule of law, and human rights. Individual grants range from €100,000 to €200,000 for projects lasting 24 to 54 months, offering non-restricted, long-term organisational support. The programme aims to enhance institutional capacity, sustainability, and civil society networks in Hungary…[more]
Supporting Artistic Production of Young and Emerging Artists in Serbia
Deadline: 31-Dec-2026
The Heartefact call supports young and emerging artists in Serbia with grants of up to 625,000 RSD (approx. 5,000 CHF) to develop and publicly present their first or early independent artistic works. The programme runs from 2025 to 2028 and promotes social inclusion, democratic values, intercultural dialogue, and advocacy for marginalized groups through arts and culture. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed quarterly in March, June, September, and December until funds are fully allocated…[more]
Open Call for Nepal Australia Awards
Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The Nepal Australia Awards 2027 provide fully funded scholarships for Nepali citizens to pursue Master’s by Coursework or Research in Australia. The program equips emerging leaders with advanced skills, international experience, and professional networks to support sustainable development, gender equality, and governance in Nepal…[more]
Entries open for Laos Australia Awards
Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The Laos Australia Awards 2027 provide scholarships for Lao citizens to pursue Vocational Education, Master’s, and Doctoral programs at Australian institutions. Awards cover tuition, travel, living expenses, health cover, and fieldwork allowances, equipping emerging leaders with skills, networks, and experience to support Laos’s development and foster long-term international cooperation…[more]
Call for Proposals: Thematic Programme on Human Rights and Democracy (Montenegro)
Deadline: 08-May-2026
The Thematic Programme on Human Rights and Democracy 2025 in Montenegro offers civil society organisations funding to promote human rights, democracy, and social inclusion. With a total budget of €1,000,000, the programme focuses on preventing discrimination, protecting vulnerable groups, and fostering inclusive societies aligned with the EU Action Plan 2025–2027. Eligible NGOs can apply individually or with partners to implement impactful initiatives…[more]
Apply now: Australia Awards Scholarships (Sri Lanka)
Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
Australia Awards Scholarships offer fully funded study opportunities in Australia for emerging leaders from Sri Lanka. The program supports priority sectors such as climate change, governance, education, gender equality, and inclusive growth. Selected scholars receive comprehensive financial support and are expected to contribute to Sri Lanka’s long-term development after completing their studies…[more]
Call for Nominations: Maldives Australia Awards
Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The Maldives Australia Awards offer master’s scholarships for Maldivian citizens to study in Australia in 2027, supporting health security, social stability, and economic recovery from COVID-19. Scholarships cover tuition, travel, living expenses, and academic support, with a focus on leadership, inclusion, and contributing to Maldives’ development priorities…[more]
MATRA 2026: Funding Opportunity to Strengthen Democracy and Rule of Law (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
Deadline: 01-Apr-2026
The Netherlands Fund for Regional Partnerships (NFRP) has launched the MATRA 2026 Open Call for Proposals to support social transformation in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The program funds civil society–led projects that strengthen rule of law, human rights, media freedom, democratic governance, and reforms aligned with the country’s EU accession path. Only local NGOs in Bosnia and Herzegovina are eligible, and projects must align strictly with MATRA’s thematic priorities…[more]
Public Call for Project Proposals under ReLOaD3 in Malishevë/Mališevo (Kosovo)
Deadline: 17-Mar-2026
The ReLOaD3 programme, implemented by UNDP with European Union support, invites civil society organisations (CSOs) in Kosovo to apply for grants aimed at enhancing local governance and service delivery in Malishevë/Mališevo. Projects should focus on youth participation, education, social inclusion, volunteerism, sustainable tourism, and community development, with grants ranging from EUR 5,000 to EUR 30,000…[more]
Applications open for Bangladesh Australia Awards
Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The Bangladesh Australia Awards are fully funded postgraduate scholarships for Bangladeshi professionals to study in Australia and build leadership capacity for national development. The program supports master’s degrees in priority sectors such as health, blue economy, governance, environment, and inclusive economic development, with a strong focus on long-term partnerships and development impact…[more]
Call for Submissions: Philippines Australia Awards
Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The Philippines Australia Awards 2027 provide Filipino citizens with fully funded scholarships to pursue master’s degrees in Australia, focusing on priority sectors like agriculture, climate change, cybersecurity, governance, health, maritime security, and trade. The program covers tuition, travel, living costs, and preparatory support, while emphasizing leadership development, knowledge exchange, and contributions to national development goals…[more]
Nominations open for Vietnam Australia Awards
Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The Vietnam Australia Awards 2027 provide scholarships for Vietnamese citizens to pursue master’s degree programs in Australia, focusing on priority areas such as agriculture, digital transformation, health, governance, and gender equality. The program aims to develop emerging leaders who contribute to Vietnam’s sustainable development, foster international cooperation, and strengthen people-to-people links between Vietnam and Australia…[more]
Open Call for Tonga Australia Awards
Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The Tonga Australia Awards 2027 provide fully funded scholarships for Tongan citizens to pursue tertiary education in Australia or the Pacific region…[more]
Nominations open for Fiji Australia Awards
Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The Fiji Australia Awards 2027 support Fijian citizens to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate study in Australia or the Pacific, strengthening skills, leadership, and development impact in priority sectors. Funded by the Australian Government, the program provides full scholarship support and targets emerging leaders committed to Fiji’s long-term development…[more]
Call for Nominations: Solomon Islands Australia Awards
Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The Solomon Islands Australia Awards 2027 offer fully funded undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral scholarships for Solomon Islands citizens to study in Australia. Funded by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the program builds leadership and skills in priority sectors, with applications closing via OASIS…[more]
RFAs: Empowering Local Communities for Recovery and Resilience (Ukraine)
Deadline: 03-Apr-2026
The International Renaissance Foundation, in partnership with the Eastern Europe Foundation and supported by Norad and Sida, has launched the three-year Impulse Project to strengthen Ukrainian civil society organizations (CSOs) in recovery, inclusiveness, and democratic governance. The Small Grants Competition supports initiatives promoting gender equality, environmental sustainability, and community recovery in the regions most affected by hostilities, providing funding, training, and network opportunities…[more]
Call for Projects: Protecting Rights and Empowering Roma Communities (Hungary)
Deadline: 16-Mar-2026
The ROVA – Roma for Change Project 2026 invites Roma and pro-Roma civil society organizations in Hungary to submit initiatives promoting EU values, human rights, and social inclusion. The program supports projects that empower Roma communities, monitor implementation of the National Roma Strategy, and foster cooperation between Roma and non-Roma organizations. Grants of up to €25,000 per project are available for initiatives lasting up to 13 months…[more]
FAGiC ROVA Project Call: Empowering Roma Communities and Promoting EU Values in Spain
Deadline: 16-Mar-2026
FAGiC has launched a call for proposals under the ROVA project to support Roma and pro-Roma civil society organizations in Spain. The program promotes fundamental rights, European Union values, social inclusion, and community empowerment. Eligible organizations can receive grants of up to 25,000 EUR for projects executed between September 1, 2026, and September 30, 2027, focusing on capacity-building, awareness-raising, advocacy, and community engagement…[more]
Grants to Support the Artistic Production of Young and Emerging Artists (Serbia)
Deadline: 31-Dec-2026
Heartefact, through the Culture for Democracy (CfD) project, invites applications for the My First Time grant to support young and emerging artists in Serbia in creating and publicly presenting their first or early independent artistic works. The grant promotes social inclusion, democratic values, and intercultural dialogue by empowering early-career artists, particularly those working outside major urban centers…[more]
Switzerland’s Small Grants Programme in Moldova
Deadline: Ongoing
The Swiss Cooperation Office/Representation of the Embassy of Switzerland in Moldova (SCO-M) are requesting applications for its Switzerland’s Small Grants Programme…[more]
Funding available for Cultural Heritage Preservation in Australia
Deadline: 25-Mar-2026
The AFCP Freedom 250 Special Edition by the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Australia provides grants ranging from $25,000 to $250,000 to support cultural heritage preservation projects linked to American history and global partnerships. The program funds conservation of archaeological sites, historic buildings, museum collections, and traditional cultural expressions. Eligible applicants must be registered non-commercial entities and active in the U.S. government’s System for Award Management (SAM) before receiving funding…[more]