Call for Applications: Unlock funding & mentorship for your participatory program
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The future of democracy starts here - Apply now!
What if your ideas could inspire thousands? What if your community had the tools to fight the climate crisis, empower young people, or build fairer institutions - and you had the chance to make it happen?
This isn’t a “what if.” It’s an opportunity!
People Powered is opening applications for three programs that are shaping the future of democracy around the world. Whether you’re passionate about climate action, youth participation, or reimagining how decisions are made, there’s a path here for you.
Why this matters
Around the globe, governments and communities are experimenting with bold participatory ways of making decisions - from climate participatory budgeting in rural villages to youth assemblies in Europe, Africa, Asia, and Latin America. But great ideas need more than passion: they need funding, mentorship, and global allies.
That’s where these programs come in.
Participants in the Climate Democracy Accelerator (CDA) will receive a $10,000 grant and five outstanding action plans will receive an additional $15,000. Democratic Innovations Accelerator (DIA) offers expert mentorship and peer-learning to strengthen youth participation programs. Rising Stars Mentorship provides personalized guidance to refine and implement participatory programs. Each program offers valuable dedicated training, support, mentorship, and resources to drive meaningful change. Don’t miss this opportunity!
How to apply
Read the program requirements and selection criteria for each program below.
Complete the application form and submit it along with the required documents by November 30, 2025 11:59 pm UTC (check your timezone here).
Learn more about each program
Applications are open to civil society organizations, governments, and civil servants. Read below for specific details:
Climate Democracy Accelerator (CDA): To support governments in engaging communities in climate action with a focus on renewable energy and regenerative agriculture.
Eligibility: Open to global applicants, with priority spots for participants from Brazil, Indonesia, India, Mexico, and South Africa.
Democratic Innovations Accelerator (DIA): To help governments engage community members using innovative participatory approaches, with a focus on youth participation.
Eligibility: Open to applicants in the European Union and Horizon Europe countries only.
Rising Stars Mentorship: To provide expert mentorship to individuals and organizations developing participatory democracy programs.
Eligibility: Open to global applicants.
Are you ready to get to work on an action plan that will engage the public in meaningful and equitable participatory programs? Apply quickly as slots are limited.
