Closed
Last Update: May 26, 2026
Funding available
Varies by project
Timeline
- Closing date : June 2, 2026
Location
Canada
Overview
The program provides support for projects that advance democratic goals and strengthen democratic institutions. Eligible proposals focus on human rights, independent media, civic education, transparency, and other democracy-related priorities.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase social or community impact
- Improve governance or administrative structure
- Raise awareness or mobilize a population
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Timeline
- Closing date : June 2, 2026
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- Non-profit
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- All groups
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
- All industries
Target groups
- All the groups
Revenue structures
- All structures
Scope
- All dimensions
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Human rights and rule of law initiatives
- Independent media and freedom of information projects
- Civic education and civil society strengthening
- Democratic governance, transparency, and accountability programs
- Democratic conflict resolution and freedom of association activities
Documents Needed
- Organization Profile Form
- Application Proposal Form
- Proposal Narrative
- Proposal Budget
- Registration documents, if applicable
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Nongovernmental organizations
- Civic organizations
- Associations
- Independent media organizations
- Other similar independent organizations
Who is not eligible
- Individuals
- Governmental bodies
- State-supported institutions, including public universities
- Projects implemented in the United States or other established democracies
Eligible geographic areas
- Africa
- Asia
- Eurasia
- Europe
- Latin America and the Caribbean
- Middle East and North Africa
- Global projects spanning more than one country in different regions
Selection criteria
- Fit with NED’s overall priorities.
- Relevance to the country’s specific needs and conditions.
- Applicant’s democratic commitment and experience.
How to apply
- Step 1: Prepare application materials
- Complete the required forms.
- Write a narrative proposal describing the project.
- Prepare the proposal budget.
- Include registration documents if applicable.
- Step 2: Submit by email or secure communication
- Send the application to the correct regional email address for the project location.
- Use the global email address for projects taking place in more than one country in different regions.
- Step 3: Submit by post if needed
- Mail all application materials to National Endowment for Democracy, Attn: Grant Proposals, Washington, DC, USA.
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed by the NED Board of Directors.
- Funding decisions are made three times a year.
- Proposals submitted after the deadline are considered at the following Board meeting.
Additional information
- Applications use the updated PDF forms only.
- Proposals submitted after the deadline are reviewed at the next Board meeting.
- The Board of Directors meets four times a year.
- Scam alerts have been issued for fake NED grant contacts.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the NED Grants Program Program
What is the NED Grants Program?
The program provides support for projects that advance democratic goals and strengthen democratic institutions. Eligible proposals focus on human rights, independent media, civic education, transparency, and other democracy-related priorities.
Who is eligible for the NED Grants Program program?
To be eligible for the NED Grants Program program, you must:
Local, independent NGO
Nonpartisan project
Eligible country or region
What expenses are eligible under NED Grants Program?
Human rights and rule of law initiatives
Independent media and freedom of information projects
Civic education and civil society strengthening
Democratic governance, transparency, and accountability programs
Democratic conflict resolution and freedom of association activities
Who can I contact for more information about the NED Grants Program?
You can contact NED (NED) by email at nedorg proposals@ned.org.
Where is the NED Grants Program available?
The NED Grants Program program is available across Canada.
Is the NED Grants Program a grant, loan, or tax credit?
NED Grants Program is a Grant and Funding
Who are the financial supporters of the NED Grants Program?
NED Grants Program is funded by NED (NED)