We fund work that strengthens the long-term resilience of democratic systems. Like an immune system, democracy requires sustained care, diverse actors, and the capacity to respond to new threats. We invest in non-partisan initiatives that contribute to durable systemic change.
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Our approach to funding is rooted in a partnership mindset. We prioritize multi-year relationships and flexible support, directed toward the overall mission of organizations rather than individual projects.

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Our funding strategy is structured around four interconnected pillars:

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Pillar 1: Safeguard the Public Square

 

Objective: Ensure an inclusive, open and resilient public square for democratic debate and civic engagement. 

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Examples:  

• Supporting independent investigative journalism

• Countering intimidation, harassment, hate and disinformation

• Addressing foreign interference, transnational repression, and coordinated efforts to distort democratic debate

• Advancing pluralism narratives

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Pillar 2: Foster Diverse Participation

 

Objective: Expand free, informed and meaningful participation in public life, especially among under-represented communities.

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Examples:  

• Development of inclusive democratic engagement and leadership pathways

• Supporting innovative deliberation and decision processes

• Amplifying the voices and civic participation of communities targeted by hate, stigmatization, or repression

• Support for campaigns focused on democratic issues or pluralist values

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Pillar 3: Hold Power to Account

 

Objective: Ensure that public power and political and economic influence are subject to effective accountability and clear, enforceable legal safeguards.

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Examples:  

• Supporting investigative, watchdog, and accountability initiatives

• Advancing transparency, access to information, and oversight mechanisms

• Supporting strategic litigation, legal advocacy, or policy reform efforts

• Defence and protection of individuals and organizations facing retaliation for investigative or public-interest work

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Pillar 4: Shape the Democracy of Tomorrow 

 

Objective: Support experimentation and long-term thinking to renew democratic institutions and practices, notably in ways that advance reconciliation.

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Examples:  

• Realizing artistic initiatives that expand democratic imagination

• Developing and testing concrete democratic alternatives

• Experimenting with citizens’ assemblies and other participatory formats to explore new forms of collective decision-making​