When to Apply and Who Can Apply (2024)

UNDEF accepts on-line proposals during an annual window, whichwill openfrom 1stofNovember 2023to 30th November2023. Those who plan to apply are strongly encouraged to visit theUNDEF websiteas soon as possible to familiarize themselves with what is required.

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.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 eight main areas: Women's Empowerment; Community activism; Rule of law and human rights; Youth engagement; Strengthening civil society interaction with Government;Media and freedom of information; Tools for knowledge; Electoral processes

No, UN accreditation is not a prerequisite to apply for UNDEF funding. However, applicants have to comply with certain guidelines. Please seeUNDEF Project Proposal Guidelines.

Yes, but it must be in the context of a new project, since UNDEF does not provide continuous funding.

Formal networks can apply. Informal networks without an administrative and accounting structure available for monitoring and reporting purposes cannot apply. However, one NGO of an informal network can be the applicant with all or some of the network members registered as project partners in the proposal, but only with the clarification that they compose an informal network. Note: prime responsibility for reporting will fall on the applicant NGO.

In principle, there is no limit to the number of proposals. However, applicants are advised to be strategic as it is highly unlikely that UNDEF will fund more than one proposal per organization.

Proposals from all countries as well as regional and global initiatives will be considered; there are no limitations in this regard. However, strong preference will be given to applicants from countries and regions that are in the transition and consolidation phases of democratization, in particular countries emerging from conflict, new and restored democracies, least developed countries and low or middle-income countries.

UNDEF grants will be allocated for projects with a default duration of two years. However, it is fully acceptable to UNDEF if a successful applicant completes a project in less than two years.

UNDEF aims at funding action oriented projects. Proposals focusing only on research related activities are not one of our core priorities.

Information about UNDEF funded projects in previous rounds is available on UNDEF website under the project section. You can also search UNDEF projects database.

Applicants can apply for a minimum of 100,000 US dollars and a maximum of $200,000 US dollars.

ALERT: Any organization with an UNDEF project grant is responsible for its staff, personnel and contractors, including supervision, welfare and security, throughout the life cycle of the project and beyond, in accordance with its own rules and policies.