NNational Endowment for Democracy (NED)
Grants for human rights and democracy development projects
Closed
Verified by the editorial team 11 September 2026
Summary
The National Endowment for Democracy awards over 2,000 grants a year to non-governmental organisations outside the United States, funding projects that advance democratic goals and strengthen democratic institutions.
About the call
NED funds only non-governmental organisations - civic organisations, associations, independent media and similar groups working in young democracies, societies in transition and under repression. Applications follow fixed quarterly deadlines; the nearest is 21 September 2026, followed by 27 January and 28 June 2027. Proposals are submitted in English by email to a regional address (for Ukraine - europeproposals@ned.org).
Who can apply
- Non-governmental organisations: civic organisations, associations, independent media
- Organisations working in eligible countries and regions outside established democracies
Who cannot apply
- Individuals
- Government bodies and state-supported institutions
What the funds are for
- Projects that advance democratic goals
- Strengthening democratic institutions
- Protecting human rights and freedom of expression
Documents required
Forms and templates are on the call page
How to apply
- 1Download the current PDF forms from the NED website (older versions are not accepted)
- 2Complete the forms and prepare the Proposal Narrative
- 3Email to the regional address (Europe: europeproposals@ned.org) by the deadline
Questions and answers
- Can government bodies or individuals receive a NED grant?
- No. NED funds only non-governmental organisations; individuals, government bodies and state-supported institutions cannot apply.
- Can independent media apply to NED?
- Yes. Eligible applicants include civic organisations, associations, independent media and similar non-governmental groups.
