National Endowment for Democracy (NED) (NED) makes direct grants to hundreds of nongovernmental organizations worldwide working to advance democratic goals and strengthen democratic institutions. In 2012, NED funded about 1236 projects in 92 countries around the world. Grant amounts vary depending on the size and scope of the projects, but the average grant lasts 12 months and is around $50,000.
The United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF) 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. Applications begin Mid-November, 2017 Apply here
Spencer Foundation The Small Research Grants program is intended to support education research projects with budgets of $50,000 or less. In keeping with the Spencer Foundation’s mission, this program aims to fund academic work that will contribute to the improvement of education, broadly conceived. The New Civics initiative area invites research proposals that ask critical questions about how education can more effectively contribute to the civic development of young people. Next Deadline: May 1, 2017 Apply here
Ford Foundation Ford Foundation supports efforts to make the systems that govern political participation more fair and inclusive, particularly for historically excluded populations. In particular, we seek to ensure that the rules of the game for political participation are inclusive of all, with a special focus on voting rights and democratizing money in politics in the US. For more information click here