United Nations Democracy Fund 2015

Application Deadline: 31st December 2015

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 grants range from US$100,000 to US$300,000.

Only on-line proposals during this period, in either English or French, will be accepted.UNDEF projects are two years long. Applicants can request a grant of a minimum of 100,000 US dollars and a maximum of 300,000 US dollars.

UNDEF supports projects that strengthen the voice of civil society, promote human rights, and encourage the participation of all groups in democratic processes. The large majority of UNDEF funds go to local civil society organizations — both in the transition and consolidation phases of democratization.

Proposals are subject to a highly rigorous and competitive selection process, with fewer than two per cent chosen for funding. Projects fall under one or more of seven main areas:

Community Activism
Rule of Law and Human Rights
Tools for Knowledge
Women’s Empowerment
Youth Engagement
Media and Freedom of Information
Strengthening Interaction with Government

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.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the United Nations Democracy Fund

2015 United Nations Democracy Fund for Organizations Advancing Democracy (US$100,000 to US$300,000 Grants Available)