UNDEF grants

Submission Deadline: 31st December 2014

The United Nations Democracy Fund invites civil society organizations to apply for funding for projects to advance and support democracy.

The United Nations Democracy Fund supports projects that strengthen the voice of civil society, promote human rights, and encourage the participation of all groups in democratic processes. It is the only UN entity that has the word “democracy” in its name; the only UN body with the primary purpose of supporting democracy through empowering civil society; and one of the youngest entities in the UN system.

UNDEF projects exist in developing countries, in societies in transition and in challenging environments, and are in six main

areas: community development; rule of law and human rights; tools for democratization; youth; empowering women; and media. UNDEF grants range from US$100,000 to US$300,000.

Eligibility Requirements:

The following institutions are eligible for UNDEF grant funding:

(i) Civil Society Organizations and Non-Governmental Organizations, engaged in promoting democracy. These are anticipated to receive the bulk of the funding.

(ii) Independent and Constitutional Bodies, including Election Commissions, Ombudsman Institutions, National Human Rights Institutions and other independent governance bodies, for project proposals facilitating the inclusion of the voice of civil society.

(iii) Global and Regional inter-government bodies, organizations and associations other than the United Nations, for project proposals which strengthen the voice of civil society.

Project proposals are subject to a highly rigorous and competitive selection process, quality vetting, due diligence and lessons learned from previous Rounds

UNDEF projects are two years long, project grants ranging from $100,000 to $300,000, and fall under one or more of six main focus areas:

· Community development

· Rule of law and human rights

· Tools for democratization

– Media

· Women

· Youth

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the United Nations Democracy Fund

2014 United Nations Democracy Fund for Organizations Advancing Democracy (US$100,000 to US$300,000 Grants Available)